The art of catching

the long version

Instruction from a pro. Catching is the most important defensive position on the field, yet little expert instruction about how to succeed as a catcher has been readily available -- until now. In The Art of Catching, former major leaguer Brent Mayne distills sixteeen years of professional experience to provide cutting-edge overviews of all the crucial technical aspects of the position, including: athletic posture and stances; glove mechanics and throwing to bases; pitchouts, back picks, and handling pop flies; calling games and working with pitchers; making plays at the plate without getting hurt; getting the most out of drills and bullpen time; what it takes to play in the big leagues. Mayne cautions: "Practice does not make perfect. Practice makes permanent. In other words, if you have poor technique when you practice, that is what you will take out to the game." This manual will help ensure that your technique is stellar. The information in this book is applicable to players at all levels, from Little League to the major leagues. With many photos and illustrations, summaries of key points, and thought-provoking quotations, The Art of Catching is the essential instruction manual for coaches and aspiring catchers everywhere. - Back cover.