All books using the keywords: RICK STRAUB

I have discovered that while much has been documented in finite details about hitting (Charlie Lau, Walt Hriniak, Ted Williams), and pitching (Rick Peterson, Mike Marshall, Bill Thurston), there is little to take catchers to that level. I have attempted to go to that level, beyond Catcher 101... the “graduate level”. It assumes that you have a foundation of catching knowledge on which to build. You have had success and want to improve. Some of these techniques are somewhat different from what you may be doing so they take time and practice to master; BUT they will make you better!

A year-round plan for CATCHERS; to get them/ keep them in shape, and improve their skills. To learn any new skill or gain expertise, you need to practice, practice, practice. But, the quality of your practice is just as important as the quantity. Top-level performance is primarily the result of top-level practice NOT just due to natural talent. So, it’s not about what you’re born with, but about how consistently and deliberately you can work to improve your performance. Activities described here are for: - PRE-SEASON PHYSICAL CONDITIONING & TRAINING, - INDIVIDUAL TRAINING- FOCUS on SKILLS & DRILLS, - TEAM/ GROUP TRAINING- FOCUS on the GAME.

“Catching4Kids – small targets” is a primer for young catchers to perform, get better... build a foundation to expand, improve and grow. As the catcher improves, as the competition increases, more techniques can be added, expanding the catcher's scope based on need and ability. I suggest that baseball/ softball organizations (little leagues, rec councils, amateur groups) adopt this as a standard for teaching their young catchers; ages from 6-7 to 12 (and up). In doing so, you have an instructional path for your catchers and have provided the tools for your coaches.