As a catcher's dad where triple digit game days are common, I couldn't disagree more. Running at the base runner can be effective when done in the right situation. If the primary concern is tiring the catcher out, may I suggest additional conditioning during the week?
Although I agree with conditioning, why not play smarter as opposed to working harder with all of that gear on? Why not throw the ball to the baseplayer ahead and let them walk them back? It doesn't have to be a hard throw. Conditioning is much more than just running, exercising the core muscles, when it comes to catching. it also involves the thighs and throwing arm muscles as well as correct throwing mechanics. My DD is also a catcher. Right or wrong, she played anywhere from 3-7 TB games a day: mostly from the Runners on stance. Even in college, she prefers this stance. Conditioning is one thing. Making a catcher work unnecessarily under all that gear when it's in the high 80's plus, up to, and including triple digits, is just plain dumb IMO especially when you have other players that are available to do what needs to be done without such handicaps. JMHO.
ETA; I train my BR's to dance with the catchers for this specific reason. We've had few last more than an entire game behind the plate under all that gear in high temps. Granted, the few that did make it were in excellent condition but usually didn't last the day and who do you want in the championship game, the one who's overheated about to suffer sunstroke or the one who threw the ball down to conserve energy and still has a strong arm due to conditioning?
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