Fastpitch Masters Blog
1 Hand or 2?
At a young age, players will learn basic fundamentals for catching a ball. A fundamental that is taught is to use your throwing hand to trap the ball in your glove. This is the best way to secure a catch, mainly because it is more difficult for younger players to close their gloves. I’ve seen many players grow into their teens thinking that a second hand is unnecessary since they can close their gloves and make a secure catch. They are considered both right and wrong.
If you receive an excellent throw or catch a ball in the outfield that is easy, you should always secure with your throwing hand. This is because, in moments where you will have to make a catch and quickly get rid of the ball, your throwing hand is already there. This ensures that players get the ball out of their glove as quickly as possible.
When players receive a bad throw or field a ball to their forehand or backhand, they must use only their glove hand. Trying to secure a bad throw with a throwing hand can shorten a player’s glove range. For example, if you’re playing first base and the throw you’re receiving is wild, you may have to stretch your legs and arm as far as possible. Our arms are connected to our shoulders, so if you stand with your arms out in a T form and try to touch your glove hand with your throwing hand, you will pull your glove hand towards you, shortening your range. When teaching players to play first, an essential skill is that they work on many glove work without their other hand.
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