DD is learning to throw a riseball, and more importantly, I am attempting to learn how to catch one. Unfortunately, my age and reflexes are making this difficult. I am so used to the ball dropping, that the rise seems to catch me off guard, even when I know it is coming. I have had several close calls where the pitch will tip off the webbing of my mitt and sail over my head. Luckily I have not been hit yet, but I am sure it is only a matter of time. I started looking at catcher's helmets but I am currently considering buying a umpire's mask instead. After all, that is all the protection blue has behind the plate (headgear at least). What are your thoughts on this? Is the umpire mask sufficient? Or should I go all out for the catcher's helmet?
