Catching Drill: Block and Recover (Baseball & Softball)
Catching drill combining blocking with quick recovery and throwing motion, simulating game situations with runners.
Instructions
Catcher in full gear in catching position (home plate optional), with 4 baseballs spread out in front of them Coach/partner with tennis balls 30 feet in front of the catcher Coach/partner throws tennis balls into the dirt so that they bounce into the catcher on one hop Catcher drops and blocks the tennis ball and picks up a baseball to fake throw, working on getting to the ball and into the throwing position quickly Catcher places each baseball back in their spot in front of them and gets back in catching position to block the next tennis ball Partners switch after blocking 10 balls
Coaching Points
- Block the tennis ball in the dirt
- Immediately grab a baseball for throw
- Quick recovery from block to throw position
- Simulate throwing to a base
- Speed matters - runners are going
- Block first, recover second, throw third
At a Glance
- Catcher’s gear
- tennis balls (at least 5)
- baseballs (at least 4)
Quick Actions
Similar Drills You Might Like
Explore more drills to build your practice plan and develop well-rounded skills
Catcher Pop Time Drill
Develop sub-2.0 pop time through proper footwork, quick transfer, and accurate throws to second base.
Basic Blocking
Fundamental catching drill teaching basic blocking technique for balls in the dirt directly in front of the catcher.
All Together Receiving
Comprehensive catching drill focusing on receiving all pitch types and locations, emphasizing soft hands, framing, and proper stance.