Ball Blocking
Also known as: blocking in the dirt, short-hop block
Ball blocking is the technique of dropping to the knees to smother a pitch in the dirt, preventing wild pitches and passed balls that would allow baserunners to advance.
When a drop ball dives into the dirt or a changeup is thrown too low, the catcher must block rather than catch — dropping the knees to the ground, bringing the glove to the dirt between the legs, and using the body as a wall to keep the ball in front. A catcher who blocks well allows pitchers to throw the drop ball and changeup to the zone's lower edge without fear of runners advancing on passed balls. It is an essential skill for handling the pitch arsenal that makes fast-pitch pitchers effective.
Example
The pitcher bounces a drop ball in front of the plate with a runner on second; the catcher drops and blocks it in the dirt, keeping the runner from advancing.
Related terms
- Ball ReceivingBall receiving is the technique of catching pitched balls cleanly and quietly — presenting them to the umpire in a way that reinforces strike calls and prepares for an immediate throw if needed.
- Drop BallA drop ball is a fast-pitch pitch thrown with topspin so it sinks sharply as it reaches the plate, inducing ground balls and swings over the top.
- Catcher's RoleThe catcher's role in fast-pitch extends far beyond receiving pitches — they are the field general calling pitches, managing the pitcher's mindset, controlling the running game, and organizing the defense.
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