Mastering the Catch: Evolving Techniques for Catchers The initial movements a catcher makes before receiving a pitch - often called the pre-pitch, glove load, mitt trigger, or hand load — are vital for a successful catch. These movements are crucial for creating the ideal pocket angle and achieving perfect... timing for a fluid reception, adapting to the pitch's angle, speed, and intended location. This foundation begins with the catcher's stance or setup, which is the base of the "pyramid" of receiving. In the past, techniques like the "quarter turn," "wrist roll," or "relaxed hand" were common. As new approaches emerged, catchers began experimenting with different methods. For example, @tflowers25 was known for flipping his mitt completely upside down to generate velocity upon reception. Other techniques included "pancake" loads and "thumb taps." This video focuses on a newer technique we'll call the "cup load." With this method, the mitt doesn't touch the ground but is positioned closer to the inner thigh (at "cup height," which is the bottom of the strike zone). This approach offers several advantages: • The mitt's starting position remains hidden from the umpire. • It stays below the strike zone. • It allows for a quicker move to high pitches. • It can be just as fast, if not faster, than other techniques. Ultimately, the goal is to serve both your pitcher and the umpire by ensuring a clean, effective catch every time.show more

Tyler Goodro

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