Hey, everyone! It's Matt Antonelli here, and today I want to address one of the most frequently asked questions I receive across all our social media platforms: How can I improve my skills as a catcher on my own, without a coach or someone to practice with? Just like I emphasized in a previous video for infielders, the most significant improvements come from the work you put in on your own.
So, let's dive into some catching drills you can do using the Rukket Rebounder, which is a fantastic tool to help you refine your skills solo.
Receiving Drill: Start without a glove and get comfortable receiving balls off the rebounder, focusing on working underneath the ball and bringing it up into your chin. Begin with a low target and gradually progress to normal flips off the rebounder.
Footwork to Throw: Transition into using footwork to throw out runners. Work on your footwork to second, third, or even back picks to first base. Ensure that your feet are quick to the ground and lined up with your target. The key is to receive the ball, bring it to the middle of your body, transfer it efficiently, and make a quick, accurate throw.
Blocking Drill: Slide back a bit, get into your blocking stance, and have balls thrown off the Rukket Rebounder. Practice blocking balls coming directly at you or those veering left or right off the screen. Develop your ability to move and block effectively.
No matter your position on the field, the Rukket Rebounder is a versatile tool. For catchers, it's a game-changer. You can work on receiving, blocking, transfers, and throws, all on your own. There are no excuses not to put in the work.
Remember, the best players dedicate themselves to practice beyond team sessions. Those extra hours are where real development happens. So, grab your Rukket Rebounder put in the time, and watch your skills soar.
If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments. Don't forget to subscribe, hit the notification bell, and give this video a thumbs up. Thanks for tuning in, and we'll catch you later!
