Title
This drill trains catchers on proper blocking technique and quick recovery footwork to throw out runners at second or third base.
Compilation
If this video stacks several distinct drills back-to-back, split it into individual, draggable drills — each with its own clip, steps, and tags.
Coach's take
Great for building: Catcher's blocking mechanics and efficient footwork for quick recovery and throwing.
Builds toward Consistently blocking pitches in the dirt and throwing out aggressive base runners attempting to advance on passed balls.
What it is
A catcher in full gear practices blocking an imaginary pitch in the dirt directly in front, then recovers quickly to simulate throwing to second or third base. The drill emphasizes athletic movement and efficient transitions.
What it practices
This drill trains the proper body positioning for blocking pitches in the dirt, fast recovery to an athletic stance, and quick, accurate footwork to set up a throw to a base.
Focuses on improving
Targets deficiencies in catcher's blocking form, slow recovery after a block, and inefficient footwork when preparing to throw out base runners.
How to run it
Perform 5-8 reps blocking directly in front with recovery to 2B, then 5-8 reps with recovery to 3B. Repeat for multiple sets.Setup
- 1Player puts on full catcher's gear.
- 2Catcher assumes their primary stance in front of home plate, facing the pitcher's mound.
- 3Designate an imaginary target for recovery to second base (left foot leads) and third base (right foot leads).
Run the drill
- 1Catcher anticipates a ball in the dirt and explodes down into a blocking position, dropping to their knees.
- 2The chest is over the imaginary ball, chin tucked, eyes on the ball, and glove is tucked behind the mitt.
- 3Quickly recover from the block by popping up into an athletic throwing stance, stepping towards the designated recovery base (2B or 3B).
- 4Simulate a strong throw to the base.
Coaching cues
- Chest over ball
- Tuck the chin
- Quick recovery
- Directional footwork
- Pop up, throw
Common mistakes
- Leaving gaps between the legs or arms when blocking, allowing the ball to get through.
- Slow recovery from the blocking position, delaying the simulated throw.
- Poor footwork during recovery, leading to an off-balance throwing platform or delayed throw.
- Looking away from the ball during the block.
Progressions
- Vary the imaginary block location (left, right, straight down) and recovery base (1B, 2B, 3B, Home).
- Introduce a coach soft-tossing balls to be blocked.
- Add a visual cue (e.g., coach pointing to a base) for the recovery throw after the block.
Coach notes