This is way more important than most players, parents and amateur coaches realize. Without good communication between the pitcher and catcher, it can be hard to get in a rhythm. When the pitcher has to consistently shake off the catcher’s signs, it is almost impossible to get in a groove. A pitcher and catcher should meet up before every game and talk about what that pitcher likes to throw in different counts and situations. What is his go-to pitch when he needs to throw a strike? How does the pitcher like the catcher to set up on different pitches? What are his favorite put away pitches? Make things easier on everyone and take a few minutes to see what your pitcher’s plan is.
Founder of Baseball Dudes. Blessed with three beautiful children and an amazing wife. Baseball is my life, after my family, and I love sharing what I have learned from it. Thanks for taking the time to view what we offer here at Baseball Dudes.
Pitchers need to take responsibility for the running game. Too often we will see bases stolen and blame it on the catcher. This mind set must be switched. It is our responsibility to give our catcher a chance to throw that guy out. If we are too slow to the plate, it is OUR fault he was allowed to steal the base. If we do not vary our hold times, hold the ball for different periods of time from pitch to pitch, it is OUR fault he was allowed to steal the base. We as pitchers need to all understand that it is our job, and nobody else’s, to keep that runner at the base they are on.