11U–12U
Catching
All positions
Beginner
Both-Knees-Down Blocking Foundation (Veronica Alvarez)
MLB-clubhouse style drill that teaches catchers to get both knees down, glove to the ground, and eliminate gaps so the ball cannot sneak under or through.
- Equipment:
- Glove
- Duration:
- About 6 min
- Setting:
- Indoor or outdoor
- Players:
- Partner
Coaching notes
Catcher works from a secondary or single-knee stance into a full both-knees-down block, focusing on sealing the ground with the glove and body. Simple, repeatable reps that build the foundation for all subsequent blocking work.
Objectives
Seal the ground completely; eliminate gaps under the glove or between the legs; build confidence and correct body angles for youth catchers.
Coaching cues
Both knees down; glove flat on the ground; no gaps; chest over the ball; soft hands to deaden the bounce.
Common errors
One knee up; glove elevated; open legs; rising up on contact.
Steps
- 1. Start in secondary or single-knee stance
- 2. Drop both knees and seal the ground with the glove
- 3. Coach rolls or throws a ball into the block
- 4. Hold the sealed position and reset
Source:
MLB Clubhouse / Veronica Alvarez
