The Catcher’s Many Roles

Before Minnesota Twins slugger Joe Mauer redefined expectations for the position, catchers were normally touted for their defense – period. But unlike other position players, the catcher is charged with many disparate tasks. First and most obviously, he must make sure that no ball the pitcher throws gets away from him. Beyond that, he is [...]

Picked Off First Base

 
 
Several years ago when my son Andy was 12 or 13, he was playing in a Babe Ruth League baseball game. His first at bat, he got a solid base hit to left field. Feeling pretty good about himself, he took his lead off first base. that’s when he noticed a pretty girl sitting in [...]

Catchers Mitt

There are a number of varieties of baseball gloves. There are gloves specifically designed for the first basemen, for the infielders, outfielders, pitchers and catchers. 
For both the first basemen and catchers, these gloves are called mitts, because they lack individual fingers, like mittens. In addition, the catchers mitt has extra padding and a hinged, claw-like [...]

In Praise of the Unsung First Baseman

As is the case in any sport, some baseball positions are considered more glamorous than others. Pitchers are the only players who directly affect every play of the game, so it makes sense that they should be celebrated. Center fielders are highlight-reel mainstays thanks to their propensity to make diving catches. Short stops are heralded [...]

Finding that Old Competitive Spark

Back in high school, I really thought I was hot stuff. I played three varsity sports and wore my school jacket around everywhere I went. As much as I enjoyed football and basketball, baseball was my true passion. Lacking in experience and wisdom, I thought I could make a living at it. After washing out [...]