Baseball & Softball Catching Drills: Build Better Catchers
Master the most demanding position on the field with our comprehensive collection of youth baseball and softball catching drills. From receiving and blocking to throwing and game management, these drills develop the complete skill set every catcher needs. Perfect for coaches teaching T-ball through 12U players.
All Catching Drills
Use the search and filters below, or click any drill to view full instructions
Showing 8 drills
All Together Receiving
Comprehensive catching drill focusing on receiving all pitch types and locations, emphasizing soft hands, framing, and proper stance.
Basic Blocking
Fundamental catching drill teaching basic blocking technique for balls in the dirt directly in front of the catcher.
Basic Receiving
Foundational catching drill using tennis balls and no glove to develop soft hands and proper receiving technique.
Block and Recover
Catching drill combining blocking with quick recovery and throwing motion, simulating game situations with runners.
Blocking Side-to-Side Drill
Improve lateral blocking ability for pitches in the dirt to left and right, developing quick feet and proper blocking angle.
Block, Recover, Throw
Advanced catching drill adding actual throws after blocking, developing complete skill sequence for handling wild pitches with runners on.
Catcher Pop Time Drill
Develop sub-2.0 pop time through proper footwork, quick transfer, and accurate throws to second base.
Cross Partner Framing
Advanced catching drill with two catchers working on framing pitches thrown diagonally across, developing framing skills and glove work.
Why Catching is the Most Important Position in Youth Baseball
The catcher touches the ball more than any other player on the field, making them the most involved defender in every play. A skilled catcher can control the pace of the game, manage pitchers effectively, and prevent runs through superior receiving and blocking. Youth catchers who master fundamentals early become invaluable team leaders who can influence games in ways that statistics don't always capture.
Catching requires a unique combination of physical skills, mental toughness, and leadership qualities. Receiving pitches properly prevents passed balls and helps pitchers throw strikes. Blocking skills keep runners from advancing and prevent runs from scoring. Throwing mechanics and footwork enable catchers to control the running game. Game management skills help catchers call pitches and position teammates effectively.
The physical demands of catching—squatting, blocking, and throwing from awkward positions—build exceptional athleticism and toughness. Youth catchers develop strong legs, quick reflexes, and mental resilience that transfer to other positions. The leadership aspect of catching also builds confidence and communication skills that benefit players throughout their baseball careers.
Essential Receiving Drills for Youth Catchers
Receiving is the foundation of good catching—it prevents passed balls, helps pitchers throw strikes, and makes the game flow smoothly. The key to receiving is presenting a target, framing pitches properly, and moving efficiently to catch balls in different locations. Youth catchers should learn to receive with quiet hands and minimal movement, letting the ball come to them rather than reaching or stabbing at pitches.
Stance receiving drills teach proper setup behind the plate. Catchers practice receiving pitches in different locations while maintaining good balance and body position. Start with soft toss from short distance, then progress to longer distances and harder throws. Focus on receiving the ball with the glove hand moving to the ball's location while keeping the throwing hand close and ready. Quiet hands mean minimal glove movement after catching the ball.
Framing drills teach catchers to present pitches effectively to umpires. Catchers learn to catch pitches on the edge of the strike zone and subtly move the glove to make borderline pitches look like strikes. Practice framing high, low, inside, and outside pitches. The goal is to catch the ball cleanly and hold the glove in the strike zone position for a moment, helping umpires see the pitch as a strike. Over-framing or obvious glove movement can hurt rather than help.
Blocking Drills for Controlling the Running Game
Blocking prevents passed balls and keeps runners from advancing on wild pitches or pitches in the dirt. Good blocking technique involves getting the body in front of the ball, using the chest protector and leg guards effectively, and recovering quickly to make plays. Youth catchers must learn to block aggressively without fear, understanding that getting hit by the ball is part of the position.
Drop blocking drills teach the fundamental blocking technique. Catchers practice dropping to their knees quickly while keeping the glove between their legs and the chest protector covering the ball. Start with soft toss from short distance, then progress to harder throws and pitches from greater distances. Focus on getting the body behind the ball rather than trying to catch it with the glove. The goal is to keep the ball in front and prevent it from getting past the catcher.
Recovery blocking drills combine blocking with quick recovery to make plays on runners. After blocking a pitch in the dirt, catchers must quickly locate the ball, pick it up cleanly, and make accurate throws to bases. Practice blocking and throwing to different bases, simulating game situations where runners are trying to advance. Speed and accuracy in recovery are crucial for controlling the running game and preventing stolen bases.
Throwing Mechanics and Footwork for Catchers
Catcher throwing requires quick, accurate throws from various positions and situations. The throwing motion must be compact and efficient since catchers often throw from awkward positions or while moving. Proper footwork enables catchers to get into throwing position quickly and generate power for throws to bases. Youth catchers should focus on quick release and accuracy rather than maximum velocity.
Pop-up throwing drills teach the transition from receiving to throwing position. Catchers practice receiving pitches and quickly popping up into throwing stance, getting the feet in position and the body aligned for accurate throws. Start with stationary receiving, then add movement and game-like situations. Focus on quick, efficient movement rather than dramatic or unnecessary steps. The goal is to get into throwing position as quickly as possible while maintaining accuracy.
Throwing to bases drills develop accuracy and arm strength for controlling the running game. Practice throwing to second base on steal attempts, third base on bunts or pick-off plays, and first base on dropped third strikes. Work on throwing from different positions—squatting, standing, moving left or right. Focus on quick release and accurate throws rather than maximum velocity. Consistent accuracy is more valuable than occasional spectacular throws.
Game Management and Leadership Skills
Advanced catchers learn to manage games effectively by calling pitches, positioning teammates, and communicating with pitchers. While youth catchers may not call their own games, they can learn to work with pitchers, communicate effectively, and understand game situations. These skills develop leadership qualities and baseball intelligence that benefit the entire team.
Pitcher-catcher communication drills teach catchers to work effectively with different pitchers. Practice calling signs clearly, understanding pitcher strengths and weaknesses, and adjusting game plans based on situations. Catchers learn to communicate encouragement and instruction to pitchers, helping them stay focused and confident. The catcher-pitcher relationship is crucial for team success and develops important leadership skills.
Game situation awareness drills help catchers understand when to make different plays and communicate with teammates. Practice recognizing bunt situations, steal attempts, and other game scenarios. Catchers learn to position teammates, communicate defensive alignments, and make quick decisions under pressure. These skills develop baseball intelligence and leadership qualities that make catchers valuable team members beyond their physical abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should players start catching?
Players can begin learning catching fundamentals as early as age 6-7 in T-ball or coach pitch, but the position becomes more important around age 9-10 when stealing and advanced game situations begin. Younger players should focus on basic receiving and stance work, while older players can develop blocking, throwing, and game management skills. The physical demands of catching require players to be mature enough to handle the position safely.
What equipment do youth catchers need?
Essential catching equipment includes a catcher's mitt, chest protector, shin guards, and protective cup. The mitt should be properly sized for the player's hand and broken in for easier receiving. Chest protectors and shin guards should fit properly and provide adequate protection. A helmet with face mask is required in most leagues. Quality equipment that fits properly is crucial for safety and performance.
How do you teach blocking without fear?
Start with soft toss from short distance and gradually increase speed and distance as players become comfortable. Use proper protective equipment and ensure players understand that getting hit by the ball is normal and expected. Practice blocking drills regularly so the movements become automatic. Emphasize that blocking prevents runs and helps the team win. Positive reinforcement and gradual progression build confidence and reduce fear.
What are the most important catching skills for youth players?
Receiving is the most fundamental skill—catchers must catch the ball cleanly and present it well to umpires. Blocking is crucial for preventing passed balls and controlling the running game. Throwing mechanics and footwork enable catchers to make plays on base stealers. Game awareness and communication skills develop over time but are essential for advanced catchers. Focus on fundamentals first, then build toward more advanced skills.
How often should catchers practice?
Catchers should practice receiving and blocking skills 2-3 times per week during the season, with additional work on throwing mechanics and game situations. Practice sessions should be focused and efficient—quality repetitions are more valuable than quantity. Include game-like situations and pressure situations to build confidence. Off-season work should focus on conditioning, strength training, and fundamental skill development.
What makes a good youth catcher?
Good youth catchers are tough, athletic, and willing to learn. They have quick reflexes, good hand-eye coordination, and the courage to block pitches in the dirt. Leadership qualities and communication skills help catchers work effectively with pitchers and teammates. Physical attributes like strong legs, quick feet, and good arm strength are important, but mental toughness and baseball intelligence often separate good catchers from great ones.
Ready to build your next practice?
Combine these drills into structured practice plans, or generate game lineups in minutes.