Blocking, Receiving, and Throwing Drills

This course, led by Coach Zach Rolfe of Mount Pleasant High School, provides a comprehensive framework for developing elite high school catchers. Drawing from years of coaching experience in both baseball and football, Coach Rolfe emphasizes the two keys to effective position coaching: having a clear plan and building strong player relationships.

The program covers every aspect of catcher development:

• Blocking Skills: Step-by-step drills from dry blocks and rolling blocks to advanced angled and machine-based blocking. Players learn key verbal cues, body positioning, and repetition strategies that reinforce consistent execution.

• Receiving Mastery: Techniques for low pitches, framing, and funneling, using specialized tools like catching discs, mini wiffle balls, weighted balls, and keyhole mitts. Focus is placed on patience, fast movement, and presenting strikes to umpires.

• Throwing & Transfers: Structured progressions using clean fuego balls, striped baseballs, and flat gloves to improve pop times, backspin control, and accurate throws to all bases. Includes cage and field routines with measurable performance tracking.

• Daily Drill Structure: How to efficiently integrate blocking, receiving, and throwing into every practice, with adaptable routines for teams with small rosters and multi-position athletes.

• Leadership & Standards: A unique focus on personal development. Players undergo leadership training, review written expectations, and are held accountable to high standards both on and off the field.

This course blends technical instruction with character building, making it ideal for coaches who want to elevate their catchers’ skills while shaping them into leaders on the field.