Catching: Planning a practice around catcher’s defense

Coach Jen Fisher, head coach of Colorado State University, discusses the importance of catcher's defense in helping her team prepare and grow for the upcoming season and individual games. She describes catcher's defense as a "walkthrough," allowing the players to practice and fine tune crucial pieces of the game. These scenarios can include: throwdowns, pick-off plays, first and third plays, cut offs, plays at the plate, etc. By slowing things down and directing specific roles, catcher's defense is a critical tool for getting a team game ready. It's a great way to teach, develop, and evaluate where your team can improve. Furthermore, this drill can include every player and allow them to work on various skills.

In the beginning of the year, Coach Fisher has full practices solely dedicated to catcher's defense. During these practices, they might not get to every situation because it takes time to work through; but as the year progresses, the drills are more familiar and fine-tuned so the process is quicker. If the team struggles with a certain situation over another one, they will spend more time addressing that scenario. This will contribute to making the team feel more confident and at ease especially in high pressure situations.

During season, Coach Fisher adapts her catcher's defense to prepare for their upcoming games.  She utilizes scouting reports to draw inspiration for her practice and work specific scenarios that will be more prevalent against their opponent. For example, the other team has four slappers, so they will work more slapper defense and small ball opportunities. Anticipating and preparing for specific defensive scenarios can really reinforce and bring confidence to your players and in turn contribute to winning games. Watch as Coach Fisher talks specifics about catcher's defense, and how she utilizes it to plan an effective practice.