Catcher/Key Attributes
Image via WikipediaThe Key Position
Catcher is second only to pitcher in Little League , yet it is often the most underdeveloped position of them all. The catcher must have a very strong arm, a quick snap throw, cat-like pouncing skills, a tough demeanor, preferably baseball smarts, and a willingness to be bruised.
The old days of putting the big kid behind the plate are over. The catcher must be fast to retrieve passed balls and able to hop quickly left and right to block errant ones. Likewise, they have to be able to pop up and field bunts and swinging bunts without hitting the runner in the back.
Accuracy Counts
Catchers should have an accurate and strong arm. They often have to catch and immediately throw to second or third to nail a stealing runner. Likewise, they pretty much have to be right handed . You can get away w/ a left handed catcher in Little League, but it will make stealing third an option for the offense whereas a right handed catcher typically eliminates this option.
Key Characteristics
Here are some characteristics of a good pitcher:
- Right Handed
- Baseball Smart
- Strong Arm
- Dedicated
- Accurate
- Cat-Like quickness
- Solid throwing fundamentals
A catcher that can block balls in the dirt, eliminate the steal from the offense, and live bumped and bruised at all times can be a major asset to a team.
Can you think of any other valuable characteristics a catcher should have? Please share them.
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