What is a catcher? Why is the catcher the leader of the defense?

Welcome to our "Baseball Basics" series, where we explore different positions and techniques in baseball. In this article, we'll learn about catchers - those tough players who squat behind home plate and play a crucial role in every game.

What is a Catcher?

A catcher is the defensive player who positions himself behind home plate, directly behind the batter. Dressed in special protective gear including a mask, chest protector, and leg guards (sometimes called "the tools of ignorance"), the catcher has one of the most physically demanding jobs in baseball.

The catcher's main responsibilities include:

• Receiving pitches thrown by the pitcher
• Calling pitches (suggesting what type of pitch the pitcher should throw)
• Throwing out runners who try to steal bases
• Fielding short hits near home plate
• Blocking wild pitches to prevent runners from advancing

Imagine you're watching a game, and the pitcher throws a ball that bounces in the dirt before reaching home plate. A good catcher like Salvador Perez of the Kansas City Royals would quickly drop to his knees, block the ball with his body, and keep it in front of him to prevent any runners from advancing to the next base.

Why is the Catcher the Leader of the Defense?

The Catcher's Unique Perspective

Unlike other defensive players who face the infield, the catcher is the only player who faces outward and can see the entire field. This gives the catcher a complete view of all defensive players and baserunners.

For example, if you watched J.T. Realmuto of the Philadelphia Phillies, you might notice him constantly shifting positions slightly based on the batter and game situation, then signaling to other fielders where they should position themselves.

The Pitch Caller

Catchers serve as the "on-field coaches" by calling pitches. They hold up fingers hidden from the batter's view to tell the pitcher what type of pitch to throw (like a fastball, curveball, or slider).

Let's say there's a batter who struggles to hit curveballs. A smart catcher like Yadier Molina, who played many years for the St. Louis Cardinals, might recognize this weakness and call for more curveballs when facing this batter.

Communication Hub

The catcher constantly communicates with teammates, calling out important information like:

• How many outs there are
• Where to throw the ball if it's hit
• When to try for a double play

Imagine this situation: There's a runner on first base with one out. The catcher might yell to the infielders, "One out! Let's get two!" This reminds everyone to try for a double play if the ball is hit on the ground.

Defensive Quarterback

Much like a quarterback in football, the catcher makes quick decisions that affect the whole team. They must understand each pitcher's strengths and weaknesses and know each batter's tendencies.

Will Smith of the Los Angeles Dodgers might study videos of opposing batters before games to learn their hitting patterns, helping him make better decisions during the game.

Conclusion

The catcher truly is the defensive captain on a baseball team. Their unique view of the field, responsibility for calling pitches, constant communication, and decision-making abilities make them the natural leader of the defense. Next time you watch a baseball game, pay special attention to the catcher and you'll notice just how much they contribute beyond just catching the ball!