Blocking and Throwing for Catchers

Age Group: 12U

Focus Area: Catching

Intro:

This session is designed to help catchers master blocking pitches and making accurate throws to bases. The practice will progress from fundamental techniques to live reps, emphasizing repetition and quality execution over variety. If you have multiple coaches or a large group, consider using stations for the core drills.

Warm-Up:

Begin with a dynamic warm-up to activate the body and practice throwing mechanics:

  • Jog/followed by high knees, butt kicks, and side shuffles (5 minutes)
  • Arm circles and wrist stretches
  • Partner catch: 20 throws focusing on quick transfer and proper grip

Drill 1: Blocking Fundamentals (Dry Reps)

Catchers work on proper blocking form without a ball. Focus on movement and technique:

  • Start in receiving stance, coach gives a visual or verbal cue
  • Catcher drops to blocking position (knees down, chest forward, glove between legs, chin tucked)
  • Hold position for 2 seconds, reset, repeat 8-10 times
  • Progress to moving left/right for simulated wild pitches

Use 2-3 small groups if possible so each catcher gets more reps.

Drill 2: Live Blocking with Balls

Catchers practice blocking real baseballs in game-like situations:

  • Coach or teammate tosses baseballs in the dirt from about 30 feet away
  • Catcher blocks the ball, finds it, and recovers to throw to simulated base (no throw at first)
  • Rotate through 10-12 reps per player
  • Progress to randomizing ball placement (center, left, right) and add a real throw to a base after recovery

Use two stations: one for blocking only, one for blocking then throwing.

Drill 3: Pop-Up and Throw (Game Speed)

Catchers work on fast, accurate throws to second base:

  • Catcher starts in receiving stance; pitcher or coach simulates a pitch
  • Catcher pops up, replaces feet, and throws to second base (with or without runner if space/time allows)
  • Focus on quick transfer and footwork, not just arm strength
  • Rotate catchers—aim for 8-10 reps per player

If group is large, use two throw-down targets or bases at once to maximize reps.

Scrimmage:

Finish with a short situational scrimmage or live pitcher session. Emphasize catchers blocking balls in the dirt and making throws on steals or bunts. Rotate catchers every 2-3 batters.

Coaching Points:

  • Encourage clean mechanics: keep chest over the ball when blocking, hands and glove low
  • Quick footwork is more important than a strong arm for accurate throws
  • Stay low on pop-ups to throw, don’t stand up fully before throwing
  • Communicate with pitchers and infielders—catchers should be vocal leaders

Tips:

  • Have players drop blocked balls into a bucket after each rep to keep the drill flowing and prevent fatigue from repeated throws
  • Rotate catchers frequently to maximize focus and energy
  • Remind players to stay positive on missed blocks or wild throws—catching can be tough, and improvement comes with reps
  • If using stations, assign assistant coaches or experienced players to monitor technique at each one