Send us a text

Ever wondered how modern technology is revolutionizing the art of catching in baseball? Tune in as veteran catcher Rob Brantly walks us through his journey from mastering traditional techniques to becoming a proponent of contemporary methods influenced by advanced metrics. Discover how his time with the Chicago White Sox and playing behind Tyler Flowers opened his eyes to innovative framing techniques and the importance of strike rates in reshaping the catcher’s role. Rob candidly discusses the initial pushback within the sport and how embracing these changes has fundamentally altered his approach to the game.

Prepare to be fascinated by the significance of training environments that mimic the chaos of actual games. We dive deep into Brandon Oliver's chaos rounds, exploring how unpredictable scenarios help catchers maintain their skills under pressure. Learn how the Tampa Bay Rays' method of anchoring setups on the plate aids in managing pitches with erratic command, making strikes look effortless for umpires. We also cover essential training insights for younger athletes, ensuring they maintain proper body positioning to handle unintended pitch locations consistently.

Finally, we explore the critical relationship between catchers and pitchers. Discover how communication and trust can enhance game performance, with Rob sharing strategies on tailoring approaches to each pitcher’s preferences. Delve into the transformative impact of structured organization and mentorship on athletic performance, and how transitioning into a teaching role provides new perspectives on the game. Don't miss this insightful conversation that promises to change the way you see the role of a catcher in baseball.