How to Communicate Signs to a Catcher

Under the surface of every baseball game lives a world of signs, signals and strategies. On the field, it is the catcher who relays signs to the pitcher and other players to dictate positioning and which pitches are thrown in different situations. The catcher must be a leader and have the ability to call the game, but he doesn't make all of the decisions himself. It is the coach's job to give information to the catcher during the course of a game, so he knows what to pass on to the other fielders.

Instructions

    • 1

      Devise a system of signs and run through them with your catcher and the rest of the players and coaches. Create signs for which pitches you want the pitcher to throw, and different defensive positioning of your fielders.

    • 2

      Stand or sit in the dugout or on the bench so the catcher can see you during the game. Instruct him to look over briefly in certain situations or between each pitch to receive signs.

    • 3

      Flash signs when you want to put on a certain play, or even when you don't, so your opponents are unable to figure out what they mean.

    • 4

      Choose an "indicator," such as touching your nose, ears or mouth, that lets the catcher know the next sign is the one you will use. In this case, most of your signs are meaningless until the indicator is shown.