This week on the Complete Game podcast, we’re discussing the art and craft of being behind the plate, and boy, do we have some gems to share. From the legendary Johnny Bench to the current stars like Salvador Perez, we’re exploring what makes a great catcher, and why their role is crucial on the field. We’ll chat about traits that make catchers stand out, the evolution of techniques, and how today’s catchers are adapting to new rules and styles. Grab your mitt, sit back, and let’s talk some serious baseball!

As the episode progresses, the discussion shifts to the evolution of catching techniques and the challenges young players face in modern baseball. The hosts explore the pressure cooker environment of tournament play, where winning often takes precedence over skill development. They emphasize the need for young catchers to develop a strong baseball IQ, the ability to read the game, and the importance of communication with pitchers and teammates. Through light-hearted banter and insightful anecdotes, they offer valuable advice for coaches and parents on how to support young players in their journey, stressing that the love of the game should always come first.

Wrapping up, the episode serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role catchers play in a team’s success, both on and off the field. The hosts encourage listeners to appreciate the nuances of catching and to foster a supportive environment for young athletes, ensuring they find joy in the game, regardless of the pressures that come with competition. With a mix of humor, nostalgia, and practical advice, this episode is a delightful exploration of catching in baseball.

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

Chapters:

• 00:09 - Introduction to the Guests
• 00:30 - Favorite Catchers and Their Impact
• 10:50 - Transitioning to a New Generation of Catchers
• 17:46 - Insights on Catcher's Mitt Sizes and Trends
• 26:33 - Reflections on Legendary Catchers
• 31:41 - Transitioning Catchers: The Legacy of Tucker Barnhart
• 37:51 - The Importance of Catching Skills
• 47:33 - The Importance of Communication on the Field
• 01:01:05 - The Art of Catching: Developing Skills Behind the Plate
• 01:08:51 - The Importance of Player Development and Coaching Philosophy
• 01:17:24 - The Evolution of Catching Techniques
• 01:30:00 - Transitioning from Catching Strategies to Player Insights

Key Takeaways:

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we dive deep into the unique role of catchers in baseball, discussing how they are not just defenders but also leaders on the field, guiding their teammates through the game.
• We explore the evolution of catching techniques, from the traditional stance to the modern one-knee approach, emphasizing how catchers today are more involved in offensive strategies than ever before.
• The importance of communication between catchers and pitchers is highlighted, with anecdotes about legendary players who excelled at this crucial aspect of the game, influencing games in real-time.
• We touch on the significance of patience in developing young catchers, advocating for more practice-focused approaches rather than just tournament play, which often pressures kids to perform without room for growth.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we talk about Team Chemistry. George play on one of the greatest teams in baseball history. Find out what happened when the Reds traded Tony Perez from a member of the Big Red Machine.

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball