Expert: John McInnis - 4/15/2005

Question
I am a 14 year old catcher and my coach keeps talking about giving my pitcher the pitch out sign, well I know what the sign is but i just keep drawing a blank on the procedure of a pitch out. Does he just throw it away? I was wondering if you could inform me so the next time my coach gives me the word I wont panic.  

Answer
Hi Jeff,

once you've read the sign from the coach, normally, you pass this to the pitcher to make sure he understands. When he get in the set position before windup, you raise your glove and extend it out and wide open.  As he winds up, you rise and step outside to receive the ball, keeping your glove open and ready.  Keep an eye on the runners on base and above all else, keep your cool.  You control the game so try to anticipate what the runners might do.  

That's about it.  Not that complicated...

JohnMc