Is Catcher Framing Worth It?

[Ken Krause]

Let me ask an odd question Ken, do you see value in bringing the glove towards the shoulder and throwing hand immediately each time? This was something I did as a catcher and many of my coaches mistook that for me trying to sell (“frame”). Even as a catcher I was of the mindset that the ball already crossed the plate, I’m not holding or moving my glove to try to present something.

For me, it was an immediate “cock and load” mechanism to build the habit and prepare for a faster throw.

It's nothing I've taught generally, but I can see where it would have value. I will usually tell catchers that if there is a steal happening that is their priority - no framing required. Rake the ball back as you catch it and get rid of it as fast as you can. The pitch result is the pitch result.