Have your catcher stand behind a plate in full gear. I find that this drill works best in a gym with a backstop or wall behind the catcher. Instead of wearing a catcher's mitt, have your player wear wooden paddles strapped to their hands. The paddle should be large enough to cover the catcher's hand even when fingers are fully extended.

With the catcher in the crouch position, fire balls to all corners of the plate. The balls should hit the ground directly in front of the catcher. The catcher then blocks each ball with the paddles.

This drill is meant to teach quickness, coordination, and will help overcome the fear of incoming pitches.

Submitted by: Corky McGarrity