Converting to Catcher?

Buster Posey did this in college.

In my opinion, it's the best position on the field. I can not attest to the difficulty, though I would think it is the most demanding position physically and mentally.

I understand the diffuculty of being a catcher physically and mentally which is why I have always had a lot of respect for catchers and have always considered it one of the hardest positions to play in sports period. But that is why ive always been attracted to playing the position because it's challenging and you kind of have to be the leader on the field. I was just curious if a past catcher or someone has a kid that catches could offer some tips.

I tried catching when I was younger but I just couldn't quit flinching.

If you can find a good coach who really knows how to work with catchers, he will save you a lot of time and frustration. There are a few "tricks of the trade" when it comes to blocking, framing and throwing. If someone knowledgeable shows you what to work on, you'll very quickly get a sense of whehter or not you can make the switch.

Sounds like you have a nice body frame to start with. Not sure of your workout regimine but it wouldn't vary too much from another position player other than leg endurance.

Best thing to do to in order to learn how to catch is get in a bullpen. Catch as many pitchers as you can and work at it and not just catch a pitch.

Work on

1. Setting up in position A - giving a sign
2. Setting up in position B - after sign and getting as low as you can (no runners on) and small as you can
3. Setting up in position C - after sign and a little higher to work on transfer to throw (runners on)
4. Work on framing pitches - know how to stick a pitch and sway your body to catch it center mass
5. Blocking - just have someone throw balls in the dirt and block them in position B and C.

Thing is about blocking is the kick slide. Let's say you are blocking a pitch to your rigth. Kick the right foot out and then slide to the right and put the ball center mass. Then make sure you have very bad posture - chin tucked into chest, shoulders rolled over, and back slightly bent over.

6. Throwing - do this while long tossing to learn the arm motion then take it to behind the plate.
7. Blocking the plate - position the left foot just inside the line and work on the sweep tag. ALWAYS keep your legs bent because it helps to prevent (not stops) leg injuries to the knee.

These are just a few of the basic things you can work on your own and then you can get with a coach and be able to fine tune them.

Good luck because you are going to the toughest position on the field with the most responsibility. But it's also the most fun position and I loved it.