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Catchers Tagging Out Runners At The Plate-
Make sure the catcher’s left knee is facing the approaching runner. The shin guard protects it.
If s/he lets the side of h/her leg face the runner s/he is taking a chance on a serious knee injury.
When setting up for the tag, stand just in front of the third base line, facing the throw. Leave the facemask on.
At higher levels of ball the impact can be enormous so leave it on. “ But coach, I can’t see the incoming ball with my mask on.” The answer to that is “ You can catch an 60 - 80 mph fastball with your mask on. Leave it on.” As the runner slides, the catcher should move to block the plate entirely.
As s/he makes the tag he should keep the ball in h/her bare hand and that hand in the glove with the back of the glove facing the runner. After s/he has made the tag s/he should immediately look up and be ready for other runners trying to advance.
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