The Lateral Blocking Catcher drill is done in full catcher’s equipment including leg guards. The catcher should squat into proper receiving position. Remember, the upper part of the leg needs to be parallel to the ground.
The coach or partner is going to stand 10 feet in front of the catcher. The coach will roll balls on the ground to the left and right sides of the player.
The catcher is going to move laterally to get in front of the ball, leading with the glove. The player should essentially be blocking the ball by creating a wall in front of the rolling ball. The catcher should be using the proper glove position and using their hand to close the gap between the legs, ensuring that the ball never rolls underneath them.
Upon receiving the ball, the catcher’s chest should be directly over the ball and the knees should be in the dirt.
