Catcher’s Master Series #2
When it comes to baseball and softball, one skill can transform the dynamics of your game as a catcher — pitch framing. Pitch framing is more than just technique; it's an art and a science that can make all the difference between a ball and a strike. For catchers, performing this skill well not only makes you a key player for your team, but it also shapes the game for your pitcher.
If you're a coach, player, or parent eager to up your understanding of pitch framing, this guide walks you through the basics, why it’s important, and how it earns your pitcher crucial strikes. Read on, because mastering this technique can give your team the competitive edge it needs.
What Is Pitch Framing?
At its heart, pitch framing is the catcher’s ability to subtly adjust the way they catch and present a pitch to make it more appealing to the umpire. While it doesn’t actually change where the ball crosses the plate (those are the pitcher’s chops!), pitch framing can influence borderline pitches to tilt in favor of being called a strike.
That slight turn of the wrist or smoothing out the glove movement can be the difference between what looks like a ball and what’s called a strike. This seemingly subtle skill isn’t just a fluke talent—it’s a technique that can be taught, practiced, and perfected.
Why Is Pitch Framing Important?
Pitch framing isn't about tricking the umpire; it’s about helping them see the best version of the pitch. Done right, it ensures that pitchers get credit for their efforts, especially on those borderline calls. Here are a few reasons why pitch framing is a game-changer:
- Improves Pitcher Confidence
When pitchers know their catcher has the skills to frame their pitches effectively, their confidence increases. They feel supported and are more likely to throw boldly to the edges of the strike zone.
- Game-Changing for Umpires
Umpires strive for consistency, but they're human. A smooth framing job can make a borderline pitch look like a clean strike, nudging the call in your pitcher's favor.
- Adds to the Team’s Advantage
Every strike counts in a competitive game. Pitch framing adds more value to the team by extending at-bats, reducing pitch counts, and keeping the pressure on the opposing batter.
Whether you're a youth catcher learning the ropes or a coach eager to give your team that professional polish, understanding pitch framing is crucial to any well-rounded game strategy.
How to Master the Art of Pitch Framing
Now that you understand what pitch framing is and why it’s essential, it’s time to get into the practical side of things. Below, we've broken pitch framing into step-by-step techniques that can help any beginner catcher start earning those extra strikes for their pitcher.
- Proper Glove Positioning is Critical
Start with your glove slightly below the strike zone. Why? Because it allows you to smoothly move into the zone without exaggeration. Keeping your wrist relaxed and supple while catching the pitch ensures seamless movement. The goal is to make the pitch look natural—not forced—within the zone.
Pro Tip: Always keep your glove’s fingertips angled slightly upward. This creates a clean and controlled presentation for borderline pitches low in the zone.
Field Sports Training Tip: Use our Catcher’s Zone Mat to perfect your glove positioning every time. Developed by MLB Catcher, Jose Trevino, and MLB Catching Coach, Jordan Comadena, this mat is available in our SHOP.
- Catch with Quiet Hands
Ever noticed how some catchers jerk their glove when catching a pitch? That’s a dead giveaway and a sure way to make an umpire call a ball. Quiet hands, or minimal movement in your catching technique, ensure your framing feels fluid and intentional.
Practice catching pitches with a steady hand. Your movements should be calm, precise, and in sync with the motion of the ball. Avoid unnecessary glove flinching or swiping that might signal hesitation.
Bonus Drill: Use soft-toss practice to catch without moving your wrist. Focus only on smooth, concise catching movements that align the glove with the strike zone.
- The Wrist Flick for Borderline Pitches
This is where the magic happens! When a pitch lands just outside the strike zone, a subtle flick of your wrist can center the ball within the box. The trick is to keep it almost imperceptible. Practice snapping your wrist inward to frame both high and low pitches confidently.
If the ball is barely missing the bottom edge? Flick it upward by an inch to make it look like it caught the zone. At the edges? Turn it slightly in toward the plate. These nuances make all the difference in framing.
- Control Your Body Movements
Catchers work hard behind the plate. However, overexaggerated body movements stand out and can draw suspicion from umpires. Balance is key. Utilize your core strength and maintain a low, steady stance to stabilize your glove movement.
When catching tough outside pitches, focus on precise glove motions instead of lunging your body toward the pitch. Remember, the smoother you appear, the cleaner your framing will seem.
- Master Pitches in Different Locations
Not all borderline pitches are created equal. Framing a low pitch below the zone takes a different approach than framing an outside slider. Here’s what to focus on:
- High Pitches – Aim to catch and pull them down slightly into the top of the strike zone.
- Low Pitches – Scoop upward just below the knees with subtle wrist movements.
- Outside/Inside – Turn the glove inward carefully to avoid telegraphing your intention.
Practice framing multiple pitch types (curveballs, fastballs, sliders) to build versatility and instinct.
- Study and Communicate with Your Pitcher
Pitch framing is a partnership skill. Work closely with your pitcher to understand their tendencies, strengths, and preferred zones. The better the collaboration, the easier it will be to enhance their pitches with effective framing.
Pro Tip: Film your catcher-pitcher sessions to identify where your framing technique adds value or can improve. Visual feedback is a powerful tool for quick learning.
Field Sports Training Tip: We posted a blog, Perfecting the Pitcher-Catcher Symphony in Baseball and Softball, on October 9, 2024. Just scroll to this title to see this blog for more details on the pitcher-catcher relationship—how important it is and how to cultivate it.
Tools and Drills to Sharpen Your Framing
Looking to practice your framing skills? Here are some tools and drills to further your development:
- Tennis Ball Drill: Practice catching tennis balls thrown in various zones to improve your wrist’s flexibility and precision.
- Pitching Machine: Use a pitching machine for repetition. Focus on both low and high-speed pitches to build consistency.
- Feedback Sessions: Use video analysis or coaching feedback to fine-tune adjustments in body movement or hand positioning.
Why Pitch Framing Builds Leadership
Pitch framing isn’t just a skill that wins strikes—it’s an act of leadership on the field. Catchers who master framing naturally elevate their game, becoming valuable assets to their team. Catchers who excel at framing often stand out, earning the respect of pitchers, coaches, and scouts alike.
It’s this combination of technical skill and mental sharpness that builds a catcher into a team leader.
Get Started – Frame Your Pitch for Success
Pitch framing is the backbone of a catcher’s contributions to the game. While it takes practice and discipline, the benefits for both the pitcher and the team are undeniable. By mastering this one technique, you bring more value to the diamond and showcase your ability as a leader.
Whether you're a coach, player, or parent helping a young athlete grow, the path to success starts now. Grab your glove, start practicing today, and watch how your team’s strike count grows.
Catchers lead the charge.
Pitch framers secure the win.
Will you rise to the challenge??