freddy77 posted:Rob T posted:I know my son (when he catches) and other catchers in his program are expected to back all throws from the infield.
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Rob,
Question: Busting a gut on ALL throws? Sprinting like their hair is on fire?
Btw, I'm a coach....not a disgruntled parent.
When I set an expectation, I enforce it.
Thanks.
Had to text the kid to see what the standard is on busting a guttedness.
He says, "Depends. Just need to be able to beat the ball to the dugout. Some guys have to run harder than others."
I think it's probably better to set the expectation that they get there as fast as possible, but back it off when the situations warrant it. You can't really get mad at the catcher for not getting there to make the play if you have set the expectation that jogging down is okay.
Also as has been mentioned - it's not really all that common that the catcher does any good on the bad throws. I think the only hope is that he gets there in time to keep it from rebounding out of play. Of course those times where he makes a good backup and nails the runner trying to advance make it worthwhile.