Softball Catching Drills - Team Catching Drills

Purpose: Design a series of fundamental drills to practice over and over. Focus on softball catching drills. Discuss the mental game of calling pitches, taking charge, signaling play calls, and directing the defense.

Procedure: Catcher's gear and tennis balls. Regulation balls for older players.Work on different locations and types of pitches. Play with a partner or an instructor. Throw to bases with a hitter standing at home plate.

1. Framing I: No ball; first bare-banded then with the mitt.
2. Framing II; With ball; first bare-handed then with the mitt,
3. Dry Jab Step: Work on the pivot and throwing position.
4. Blocking I: No mitt; balls thrown in the middle.
5. Blocking II: With mitt; balls thrown to the left and right.
6. Pop-ups; Throw the mask and catch with two hands.
7. Fielding Bunts: Throw to third, second, and first base. (Also simulate force out at home and toss to first,)
8. Throwing I; Perform 3 drills: Footwork without throwing, 1-knee quick toss, and no-step throwing drill.
9. Throwing II: Throw from the crouch to third, second, and first base.
10. PassedBall: Sprint to the backstop, pop-up slide, and throw.
11. Tags: Stand in front of the plate and use a two-handed tag.
Also When blocking the plate, always keep the mask on.