I'm no catching expert but it seems like many catchers do a little "flip" before they catch the ball. They let the wrist bend down (just like 1 to 2 inches) just before it catches the ball and then bring the glove back up.
Does this have a purpose? Or is it a bad habit?
It's a good habit because it allows you to relax the arm / hand so you can attack the pitch to stick it. If you just hold your mitt out for a target then you are actually going to end up chasing the pitch to the spot of the catch. Now you lose the stick because your momentum with your hand keeps you going. By doing that little dip / flip then you're able to react to the pitch. I hope this makes sense
