Catching Tips: Giving Signals To The Pitcher

A big part of a catcher’s job is calling the pitches of the game. There is a right way and a wrong way to give signals to the pitcher. Doing it incorrectly can give away which pitch the pitcher is throwing and can also cause confusion between the catcher and pitcher.

The basic signals to give to your pitcher involve the different pitches. Typically, the pitches are called as follows:

Fastball= 1 finger straight down
Curve ball= 2 fingers straight down
Slider= 3 fingers straight down
Change= 4 fingers or wiggle fingers

Location can also be signaled to your pitcher using your fingers, simply by motioning to your right or left depending on which location you want.

There are a few basic things to remember when giving signs to your pitcher:

1) Give clear signs

3) Know the situation

To ensure your pitcher can see your signs, you have to make sure they are clear. You do not want a lot of movement from your hand, and you do not want your knees bending inwards thus covering your signals. To give a good sign, keep your sign hand tucked into your crotch, keep your knees pointing directly outwards, and keep your fingers tucked into your fist except for those fingers involved in giving the signal.

Another thing to keep in mind is hiding your signals from the opposing team. At any given time, you may have the first/third base coaches, base runners, and bench players trying to pick up your signs. Because of this, it is important to make sure only your pitcher is receiving the signals. To make sure of this, keep your knees angled in far enough so people to your sides can not see your signals. Also, don’t give the signal too low. If your fingers drop below your crouch, the opposing team may be able to see your signals and relay them to the hitter.

Know the situation! If there is a runner on second base, be sure to mix up the signals. Don’t just give one signal to the pitcher, otherwise the runner may signal to the hitter which pitch is coming. It is important to give multiple signals to your pitcher so only he knows which call was given. If you notice the runners beginning to pick up on your signals, call time out and go change things up with your pitcher.

Make sure that you and your pitcher are clear on the signals before the game starts. There is nothing worse than being caught in a situation when the pitcher doesn’t throw the pitch that you called. Go over the signs before the game, and change them up during the game if need be. Work on it!

This catching article is by Jeff Moree for CatchingInstruction.com.

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