The Real Reason There Are No Left Handed Catchers

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[@tierseason]

On the back hand tag its less important for middle infielders and third basemen then throws to first base so they can get away with it but catchers cannot since its one of the few deciding factors. I also think the distance from the right arm to the right side of second base is a little bit closer the the left arm to the right side of the base so there is a very minor advantage there.

[@arnoldbioursckii6639]

Left shortstops

[@arnoldbioursckii6639]

Back hand tag better for catchers…blocks home plate w glove…see how many runners just slide past the front swipe tag, and imagine if the catcher had tried back hand instead

[@andrewsmith746]

The real reason is that sporting goods manufacturers just don't market catcher's mitts for left handed throwers. I could never find one. I was condemned to play catcher left handed using a fielder's glove.

[@thedripdrop9826]

Our starting catcher was left handed in high-school. He was pretty good. Got a scholarship as a pitcher 🤣

[@nickschuman4652]

Where’d they even find a lefty catchers mit 😂

[@DavidStep98]

@@nickschuman4652 , I special ordered my from Rawlings.

[@bobbyyy6634]

Yo that’s weird I’m a lefty catcher and a pitcher

[@Huckleberry9921]

@@nickschuman4652 bro I found an amazing broke in left handed Rawlings catcher mit for $3 at the thrift store.

[@jaekim3530]

My daughter is a lefty and a starting pitcher for her college club team; she's also a backup catcher.

[@kman9884]

Played catcher as a lefty in little league and my coaches had the “why not put him on the mound” thought. 3 beanballs later, they put me back at catcher.

[@fredrickurbanelli4318]

Good thinkin'!

[@xenaguy01]

I'm 72 now, started as a lefty catcher in Little League. My coaches had the “why not put him on the mound” thought. 3 beanballs later, I was an outfielder.

[@chaosawaits]

Wasted opportunity. Control can be fixed.

[@kman9884]

@@chaosawaits Nah, I'd rather play catcher. It's fun to run someone down from home plate and push em to the ground when you tag them in the back.

[@MrBmario21]

Inaccurate catchers are the worst

[@bendistefano1964]

Hey I was drafted as a catcher and my dad was the catcher in your video (Benny Distefano, the one who almost caught the ball out of the umpires mask) and its pretty easy to summarize why it doesn't happen much. 1) the ball tails the wrong way when you throw to second. As much as catchers work on back spin the ball still has natural tail on it. A right handed throw tails up the line toward the runner where the short stop can work with the tag but a left handed throw tails off toward third where its harder to apply a tag. 2) Plays at the plate require a back handed pick from the outfield throw which is pretty hard to pull off with a catcher mitt on but a right handed catcher has a natural ability to catch the ball off their left foot. 3) If a collision happens at the plate a left handed catcher is open due to back handing the ball coming down the line but a right handed catcher is closed off to the runner coming down the line. Hope this provides some insight.

[@bruce4139]

The second one is no different than a right handed catching third baseman receiving a ball and laying down a tag at third tho? Also the left handed throwing catcher will just place they're ball more to the right so the tail will even out. Idk about the 3rd points all catchers get bodied in they're carrer

[@John-78]

I think it is harder to throw down to 3rd base for a left handed thrower. Especially when a right handed batter is up. The opposite may be true of first base for a righty, but a catcher throwing to first isn't nearly as important, even if it happens more. You have to get out the stop watch and see. Does it take longer for a left handed thrower to get the ball to 3rd base on a steal attempt? I suspect it does, at least when a righty is up, and that is reason enough right there.

[@bruce4139]

@@John-78 so why do we let people bat right handed because they turn on the swing so they have to turn back then run a farther distance where a lefty is turned already and runs a farther distance? Is that reason enough?

[@John-78]

@@bruce4139 Are you being serious? Because converting right handed batters to left handed batters isn't worth it to gain a few extra infield hits per year. And only choosing from lefty's wouldn't be worth it either. The difference between an elite level catcher at throwing out base runners and average is like a 10th of a second. If a lefty can't make the throw to 3rd on a steal attempt as fast as a righty that will cost you. If a righty can't make the throw to first base as fast on a pick off attempt as as a lefty, it doesn't really matter. When tenths of a second matter this could be it.

[@bruce4139]

@@John-78 so a 10th of a second matters at catching but not batting? Also we change every offhanded back catcher to a pitcher why cant we do that for batters? Also runners almost get thrown out running to 2nd, they run 90 feet the ball travels 120 feet plus the 60 feet 6 inches. Now imagine if the ball is moving 30 feet less. It will be so much faster also how often does 3rd base get stolen anyways? And with a right handed batter in the box both catchers will struggle on that throw. It's not like we cant learn it. Also catchers the throw right handed can back pick to 1st why cant we back pick on a steal to 3rd (not sure if that counts as the same terminology)

[@ss29er]

First question my left-handed son received on every team he's ever been on: "You pitch?"

[@jphilpott32]

@Cade Mcleod it's actually the opposite. Righties pick up the ball better from lefties because it comes from "in front" of their field of vision. This is opposed to a R v. R matchup, where the ball is coming from the batter's peripheral. There's more to it than that- how breaking pitches come in, break, etc., but the ability to see the ball better is the main reason.

[@slurrz_rg7204]

@Cade Mcleod firstbase. and out fieldand be played by lefty

[@Dis_iplined]

I am a lefty and I have only played out field first base and pitcher

[@ss29er]

@Cade Mcleod It's different for every batter, but overall the numbers show it's easier to hit off the opposite handed pitcher. There are a few lefty batters that have much better splits against lefty pitchers, but it's rare.

[@spookyshark632]

@@jphilpott32 At higher levels that's true, but at lower levels, righty batters will struggle just because they're not used to lefty pitchers.

[@grege5074]

plot twist: Rawlings just refuses to make left handed catcher's gloves.

[@tussler21557]

Mizuno does

[@sk8rfromGA]

I definitely own a Rawlings catchers mitt. Lefty.

[@ernestolombardo5811]

If they can make a knuckleball mitt, they make a left-handed one without breaking a sweat.

[@Golfwatcher]

This! Also prior to the mid 2000’s it was near impossible to find a left handed catchers mitt.

[@nate24680]

my son has two lefty mitts. one by Easton and one by Addidas

[@djjazzyjeff1232]

I think it's because there are so few left handed people (About 10% of the population) that when someone shows baseball promise at the junior level the coaches eyes light up and they push them into the pitcher role.

[@allanr6132]

Never knew only 10% are left handed. Thought it would be alot more.

[@djjazzyjeff1232]

@@allanr6132 Yeah I woulda thought so too. Fact of the matter is that it’s a right handed world so it’s not a total shock. My best friend is left-handed and he golfs, shoots, and throws with his right hand, but he writes with his left.

[@MacFouLaid]

@@djjazzyjeff1232 same for me, my strong hand in sports in the right hand and i write with the left

[@djjazzyjeff1232]

@@MacFouLaid Kinda like how lesbians aren't real, neither are left handed people. At least, not fully committed to the bit, lol.

[@MinistereMR]

@@MacFouLaid me three. I can do many things with either hand but absolutely unable to operate lefty scissors.

[@troywright4614]

It’s really kind of simple actually. As a child in little league very few people actually buy catchers mitts so the teams actually have all the catchers equipment. So when we are learning the game there’s usually only a right handed glove simply because of the numbers.

[@BigDogCountry]

Back when I was a yute I bought one for not much more than a regular glove (early 70's) Used it in the outfield as well as first base.

[@nofurtherwest3474]

Interesting point, makes sense

[@lambo8165]

I’m a lefty catcher and whenever I join a new team coaches be like Hey what position u play?me: I’m a catcher. coach: wtf u just say boi

[@RobChapala]

My kid played 3rd as a lefty, got the same stuff.

[@reillyshoots1841]

@@RobChapala well that makes sense, it takes him longer to get in position to throw

[@opinderbhandohal6809]

@@reillyshoots1841 im a lefty i only play first lol

[@opinderbhandohal6809]

i can pitch well too

[@yk_Its_jax]

@@opinderbhandohal6809 im right handed but play all the lefty positions for the infield lol

[@timothyoverby]

I was a left handed catcher in little league from 9yrs old to 15yrs old. It was the weirdest thing anyone ever seen.

[@colbycormier9384]

I actually caught until I was 21 and I am left handed

[@consciousmusic9222]

i caught one inning as a lefty. That was the first and last time i ever caught behind the plate. Ironically, the next inning i pitched for the first time. From that day on i became a pitcher outfielder and never caught again LOL

[@joshg.6315]

Same. I caught from 9-11 yrs old. Still have my left handed mitt!

[@bpotemski]

I played left handed catcher in adult ball

[@kman9884]

Left little league catcher as well. My coaches never had a lefty mitt though and eventually the umpires said it wasn’t safe to use a normal glove for it (in third grade there’s no issue with a 20mph fastball).

[@ChaseMunoz]

I was a left handed catcher all the the way through high school, I could back pick to first from my squat where you couldn’t tell if I was going back to the pitcher or to first until I let the ball go. I also never had an issue throwing down to third. The glove was the hardest thing to find lol 😂

[@jamesclayton7161]

Left handed gloves in general are hard to find, if you're not ordering...a little of topic it's the same as a shooter, if your in a gun store it's hard as hell to find a left handed holster...

[@TheWatchernator]

@@jamesclayton7161 I love coffee. It's a pain to find a proper left handed mug.

[@virferrum]

Lefty catching throwing to 3rd is the same as a righty going to 1st, so if righties can do it, so can lefties. That snap throw to 1st to pick off a secondary lead is probably a hugely underrated skill that lefty catchers would have, solely because they are left-handed.

[@Cohdiboi]

@@virferrum yeah but those are very different game situations. If a righty throws to first, he’s trying to catch the runner at first napping. If a lefty had to try to throw to third, it would be when a runner was actively in the process of stealing third. The stakes are just different in those two situations. You’re correct that the mechanics would be the same, but throwing out a guy who is running full speed is just naturally gonna be more difficult that throwing out a guy who’s flat footed. This is why there aren’t any lefty catchers. You need to be able to dependably throw out base stealers to play catcher, and dependably throwing out that runner at third is just straight up harder for a lefty than a righty.

[@zackdelfino365]

My brother was and I remember he had to spend like 3 hours just trying to find one

[@The_RealBigOunce]

The reason I stopped catching is because I couldn’t find a left handed glove

[@chickenjoe4612]

Ive used the same lefty catching glove since I was 8…been 11 years

[@mateoippolito9965]

@Goodest Cat that’s not aloud when you get older

[@toulafootball96]

This is what happened to me. I was behind the plate early cuz I was one of the bigger kids. When I got older coaches wanted the big lefty on the mound not behind the plate. So that's where I ended up. Also as others have said, left handed catchers mitts are exceptionally difficult to find.

[@kevinpont1804]

Good point Ryan!!

[@SuperFireHog]

They can easily make then ;special order. They got a 6 fingered glove that was made for a Pitcher that throws lefty and righty.

[@eyeofhorus99]

I had to get a special order for mine.

[@andrewr7982]

With internet now you can find anything, so not finding a glove isn’t an excuse anymore.

[@toulafootball96]

@Bojo David now yes, 15+ years ago however, it was almost impossible

[@jebbecker3106]

Thank you for making an argument for lefty's to play catcher. I am a lefty and my son is a lefty and plays catcher. I think he's discriminated against at catcher because he's a lefty. Another thing that you didn't really mention is that lefty's have a better angle and are set up to throw runners out at first on the bunt.

[@BA-dt6tg]

But the negatives out way the positives

[@TheGLORY13]

In my experiences as a catcher. I don't see a ton of positives to it as a lefty. They are no quicker to 1b trying to pick off, I used to throw down there all the time and it wasn't a big deal, it's about the quick release at the end of the day your throwing hand doesn't grant you more seconds that way. More righty batters then left so throwing down to second you'll likely to have to take a step out to not hit the batter (who has the right to box to begin with so you are more likely to hit him then make a consistent unimpeded throw down) 3rd base you've got the same problem as us, You've got to avoid the batter who's typically right handed (and when you're more likely to see a steal as there is a man in the way) --- In terms of bunts. You may be facing the bag quicker, and not have to round the ball to turn towards the bag, but bunting still is frequent enough to warrant sticking a Left behind the plate just for the bunts. --- Learn to pitch as a Lefty is my advice, you see so few lefty pitchers but plenty of lefty outfielders in the world. A lefty in high school is like seeing a damn alien most of the time. I played up and down the east coast all the way until I was about 22-23 years old on some pretty good teams and the amount of times we faced a Lefty pitcher I can say....was maybe 10.

[@88mphDrBrown]

Ya kids got no place behind the plate. No place!!!

[@tedgey4286]

You don't "play catcher." You catch.

[@solar8314]

@@88mphDrBrown lefties can still finally play catcher it is just preference

[@PaulMiles1]

Learned more about catching in the first 8 minutes of this video then I did during the 80's when I was playing catcher (in little league).

[@ButtmunchCookie]

This is one of the best channels on KZbin.

[@ilikebaseball1151]

I wish I had all of these resources available to me when I was a kid playing. Too many of my youth coaches were mostly mean spirited and impossible to learn from.

[@IAm-qf2xb]

@@ilikebaseball1151 Whistleneck holler guys need to stick to football. They will break a young person’s will, busting the kid’s chops to the point that playing becomes a drag. Tragic.

[@ilikebaseball1151]

@@IAm-qf2xb Football, specifically Indian runs are how I found out I had physically induced asthma LOL. Played one year, never again.

[@Jbp150]

Lol nice

[@zebulonwhite4169]

I had a lefty catcher when I pitched and I loved the way he was able to frame my two-seam fastball on the outside of the plate. As the ball tailed into the zone, so did his glove when he caught it. I could really work the outside of the plate much more effectively because of that combination.

[@bradmckissack5476]

Yes framing the outside corner on a right handed batter is an advantage for a lefty. Same for a righty with a left handed batter though.

[@sntslilhlpr6601]

Took 13 minutes to come to the same conclusion I said to myself when I first saw this an hour ago, but I still enjoyed every minute of it. Now that's quality.

[@alkuraal17]

The real reason: 11:50.

[@questionableidentity1]

Thank you! I hate when they can't get to the damn point

[@Briansgate]

Yep, makes sense.

[@questionableidentity1]

@Robert Reital why not start with that and THEN talk about the other reasons after? It's not a novel practice by these types of videos

[@carllutz7523]

This was my first thought as well. Why "waste" a lefty by having him get beat up behind the plate? Also, if I was a lefty, I'd prefer to pitch b/c way more money there and way less wear and tear on your body for the most part. Or put the lefty at first base.

[@Cohdiboi]

Actually, this still isn’t the reason. The real reason is even more simple. It’s because lefty catchers are at a distinct disadvantage trying to throw out base stealers at third. It’s a way harder throw for a lefty than a righty.

[@Statikk]

i’ve been a lefty catcher since i was 7, never had any problems, i was always top 3 catchers in the league. i love the position and i’d be willing to do pretty much anything to stay with it. My high school team put a kid who’s never played before in there because i’m a lefty. i’ve never been so mad in my life but it is what it is. my pop time is 2.2 and i’m pretty sure the kid they replaced me with is in the minutes. i’ve never had any problems with throws, never had any problems finding a glove. but my hopes of being a catcher were destroyed by a kid who’s never played the game

[@_lit_clips_]

Hope you get your well deserved chance I hope you don’t lose the passion because of a dumb coach, that happens way too often

[@truthvibes3330]

We want left handed catcher rights now !!

[@genenile6737]

I was similar, had to switch to 1B in high school. Coach laughed when I told him Im a catcher and lefty

[@MrRobVision]

Hahaha. Ur pop time is 2.2 and ur replacements is 2 minutes. Hahaha. That was a good one

[@Statikk]

@@_lit_clips_ appreciate you

[@a29miller]

Thanks Matt for the video. I’m sure someone already mentioned this in all the comments, but I think just the lack of availability of left handed catchers mitts at low lever is probably a big factor too. Between that and your comment about pitching a young lefty are the biggest reasons. Thanks!

[@DyonJyn]

I'm a lefty. I caught for 5 years. It was my favorite position and I loved it, V-Tek was my idol. Once i got to HS they refused to try me out at catcher because I was left handed, stuck me on the mound and/or RF. Became an All-State outfielder. But the whole time I wanted to continue catching. Never got a chance because I was a lefty. They only reason I was given

[@TheRealBatBoyAlive]

I'm still trying to find Matt Antonelli in my MLB 2K10 in my Xbox 360 lol

[@zen4realfightman426]

Just because he was playing in the major leagues during that time doesn't mean he's in the game it happens with a lot of Major League games and with Madden as well

[@kaitain7595]

Lol, that would be cool if u found him. Let us know if u did.

[@StateoftheFranchiseSports]

He's in MLB the Show 08 & 09

[@buttfartstew4789]

Hes not in mlb power pros🥺🥺🥺

[@zen4realfightman426]

@@buttfartstew4789 once again just because he was in the major leagues doesn't mean he's in a game

[@stephansteele657]

Full disclosure: lefty here. Just watching the clips he provided, I’m kind of surprised that some really sabermetric-focused manager hasn’t tried a lefty-lefty battery. Looks to me like a lefty catcher may more effectively frame breaking pitches thrown by a southpaw. Might even be more effective with a lefty at bat... It’s weird, but true, that this is just one of those baseball things that I’ve always accepted, even though it makes little sense.

[@mae2759]

Umpire here. It's a little harder to see over the catcher's throwing hand vs the glove hand. The catcher naturally turns when he sticks his glove out, so you kind of have a nice sight path to the glove vs looking over the throwing hand shoulder. Lefty hitters make everything ass-backwards and a little more challenging for umpires, so a lefty catcher would present that challenge for right handed batters, which we see the majority of the time.

[@andrewdurrer3899]

This might be an oversimplification, but when we used to pick up our league issued team equipment bag, the included catcher's glove was never left handed.

[@Clean97gti]

This was exactly my thought. I never saw a left handed catchers mitt until I was an adult. The three guys who could catch on our HS team (including me) were all righties. Left handed kids are never really given the option simply because the gear isn't there for them. I had a hell of a time catching for a couple little league teams because the gear was too big for me. Then one coach brought his own personal gear once and had me play in that and voila! Night and day difference. The right gear makes all the difference.

[@seanslattery6366]

Why would it be when the article is trying to exolain that left handed catchers are rare and not practical for a little league team with limited budget less and less sponsors to have a lefty catcher mitt. If you a lefty and want to catch bad enough and have the ability to start . Should buy own glove or ask for donations .

[@Clean97gti]

@@seanslattery6366 the point is that of there was lefty gear, you'd find more lefty catchers. It's little league, you're not supposed to have to shell out hundreds of dollars just to see if your 7 year old can play catcher. That's why teams are provided a gear bag.

[@seanslattery6366]

@@Clean97gti i understand you however most little leagues dont supply gloves for any players . Only bats , uniforms , hats and protective gear . Usually each team has a catchers mitt that is old used and Right Handed in 99% of cases because facts are most catchers are right handed throwers . Just go to dicks sporting goods or your place for baseball gear and will see there are 10 catchers mitts for each 1 left handed . Some companys dont even produce lefthanded catchers mitts . And maybe you live in rich or well off community but anywhere i played ball and i played on hardball teams frim age 7 to 38 . And we always had to bring our own gloves and spikes whether plastic or metal cleats . I understand that its expensive to buy a mitt but mist that play need to and 1/4 of catchers above little league prefer thier own glove broken in how they like . It comes with catching . Or imagine being a goalie in hockey ? I couldnt afford the 1000$ in gear that the team or league doesnt supply . Thats what this article is about . The rarity of left handed catchers . I feel for ya but its never going to happen where each little league team has a left handed cathers mitt included. Next alll people will want free gloves and spikes which i wish would happen so all kids had a new glove and comfortable spikes to match the team . However we live in an evermore greedy society and perplexes me that people can build personal spacecraft . Billion dollar yachts , dresses for 5000$ and shoe collections worth 50k when its getting harder to supply little league teams with a uniform its gotten to t shirts the same color in .any afeas .

[@seanslattery6366]

Futhermore does your childs tesm provide any other players gloves . Outfielder ? Shortstop ? 1st , 2nd or 3rd basemans gloves , ? Most catchers gear is adjustable if not a giant for age or really small kid . Believe me i wish more people donated a dollar when little league kids and adults donate time to collect donations for LL baseball . Instead of buying a bag of chips or cookies or if someone that can afford a brand new car could donate 5$ to thier city or town kids sports programs . When i played ll in the 70s we had nice uniforms with button down shirts . The coaches all donated thier time and umps being adults or kids 12 and older that could ump bases did so for free or a couple dollars . Even then we all had to buy a glove and spikes or olay in sneakers . And at the time i had paper routes for 6 years and shoveled snow a whole driveway and sidewalks and didnt ask for a set price . Some people gave you 5$ some 3$ ocasional 10$ and somtimes a hot chocolate and warm bowl of soup if no money. Now , adults took away paper routes from kids making it thier living and with all the landscapers with snowblwers , plows if homeower doest have one i never see kids knockkng on doors to work so they may buy a glove if parent or parents cant . But now the umps want 15$ or more for a little league game and some towns need to pay coaches because they cant get enough people to volunteer time. Theres no excuse for a community not being able to finance a decent little league .. We had a man in town from 1973 until 1979 and maybe more years that i wasnt eligible that donated every sunday from after easter until september that alone suoervised any kid , age 7-13 to play baseball from 8am until 4 or 5 pm each sunday and had races after the games by age group and gave a new baseball to the winner . And after a kid won he ciuldnt win another one so all kids got an oppurtunity for a ball by summers end . And he wasnt financially compensated nor collected any money for this . Only at end of summer held a fundraiser that took 2 or 3 buses full of crazy kids and a few chaperones . You dont see many people that donate thier time for free like it was . Im sure i thanked him but pavo orsulak was a good guy and its a shame that this program ever stopped . Between liability with so many looking for a lawsuit i imagine it would be risky now . Thanks to lawyers and judges that award people for thier own mistakes or blame someone teying to donate time and hold them reasponsible if a kid gets hurt playing baseball or anything good . And with video games and soccer now around where all you need is a ball. I doubt they would get 18 kids to field 2 teams . We always had 3 games going 6 teams pick up and extras for subs .. sorry for the periodical but im curios if you think they should have a left handed cathers mitt supplied if you believe every kid should get a glove and spikes ? I wish they all did . We should have fund raisers for our respective community or the cimmunitys that have no teams , no eqipment , no coaches or volunteers .

[@TekeLloyd]

Hey Great video! I was one of those rare left handed catchers. Until I got to high school, I was normally either the pitcher or the catcher. At high school and later, I pitched and played center field and first base. Another very real practical challenge is that you just can't find left handed catchers mitts. My Dad found one and bought it just because he thought it might come in handy one day, and fortunately for me I got the chance to use it. I have never seen another one at a sporting store. I am with you that the other reasons often given I never thought were really a problem. Thanks for setting it straight.

[@timwiegand2517]

Something that I've never heard discussed is the advantage a left-handed catcher would have fielding bunts. They wouldn't have to turn their body to make the throw to first.

[@lenyancey5236]

Who bunts anymore? lol

[@FrNMGuy]

I would disagree with that. Fielding a bunt would also require the catcher to halt the inertia of moving forward, to some degree, to make the throw more accurate. A right handed catcher can use the inertia to turn the rest of the body and make an accurate throw. This is similar to a second baseman fielding a softer ground ball.

[@Cohdiboi]

But they’re at a distinct disadvantage throwing out base stealers at third. This is actually the real reason there are no lefty catchers.

[@Sphere723]

Even if there were an advantage catchers usually only field sacrifice bunts. Bunts for hits are designed to go to 3B or P. If the catcher is fielding a drag bunt and a quick throw is important, something has gone wrong.

[@Cohdiboi]

@@Sphere723 I’m not talking about throwing to third on a bunt play. I’m talking about when a guy is stealing third.

[@timmalecha6311]

Played baseball till I was 40 and never even gave it any consideration. Great piece bro

[@georgew.5639]

When I was learning to play clarinet in elementary school, boys didn’t play the clarinet at the time. So I wasn’t taken seriously. So I wasn’t taught what I needed to become good at it.

[@6colothomas]

Your reasons are valid, especially the last one about good lefty catchers likely can throw hard, so they will be encouraged to move to a more valuable lefty position, like pitcher. New reason #1: I think you could add that genetics plays a big part. There are simply more right-handed people to select from. Statistically, 85% of people are right-handed and 15% are left (give or take). New reason #2; Let's compare all possible throws a catcher may make at each base. Starting at second base. You made the argument that both lefties and righties can make that throw with training and equal success, so let's call second base equal. A 1B throw-back is the only throw a catcher makes to 1B. Perhaps a lefty catcher makes that throw easier but a righty makes the back pick throw easier at third so let's remove the back pick from the equation. What's left? The stolen base. Righties have an advantage throwing our a runner because their feet are already set in the correct position to throw. Lefties have to bring their right for around farther to throw. This is true for the second basemen, shortstops and third when all of their throw are mostly to the left. Not many lefty second basemen, SS, and 3B for the same reason not many lefty catchers. Now, lefty first basemen are likely better because their throws will to their right and the glove is on the field side. Fun conversation.

[@amymorrison4345]

My 12 year old absolutely loves the catching position and has been told he is the best catcher in his age division AAA. But, he is a south paw and EVERYONE is telling him to give up the position because you never see a left catcher. He wanted a new glove for his birthday but cannot get him a decent one because no one makes them. He was in tears as they told him to practice more for pitching, first base or outfield. He was so excited to watch this video and had a ray of hope to break the stigmatism associated with “left” catchers. Thank you❤️

[@cjr1881]

It doesn't matter. He's not going to be good enough to play any position.

[@lordcheezsantero6060]

Being Left Handed, I always found it hard to find a good selection of LH gloves. Always tons of RH gloves. I’m sure it’s extremely difficult to even find one that fits, sizes, comfortably and variety of selection as well.

[@reddawng43x91]

All the dummy’s rite now are scratching there head ! Lol, same people who take a spin cast reel and flip it upside down to fish lmfao

[@dancehalldoctor]

Guns and guitars too, and they’re going to cost you another 10 to 15% as well...smh

[@BiggieTrismegistus]

@@dancehalldoctor Don't even get me started on hand and power tools for construction. For example, if you try to use a right-handed circular saw with your left hand you literally can't see what you're cutting.

[@theSinisterBend]

My son is 10 and started catching this year. The local youth baseball org had a left handed mitt they let him borrow for the season. I recently tried to buy him a mitt of his own and I'm pretty sure you can get weapons grade plutonium easier than a left handed catchers mitt.

[@rememberthis8795]

In 1980, there were two southpaw catchers in the hit school level. One wasChris Hancock from Worth County High School. I was the other one from Brooks County High School. A southpaw catcher is a secret weapon as it freaks out righty batters. I concur that it comes down to a supply and demand thing. The supply is low and coaches demand a righty behind the plate. Great video and super informative!

[@mitchacho_]

Excellent arguments! As a lefty player from little league to high school, I can honestly attest for a lot of these stereotypes about a lefty. You’re almost always guaranteed to play 1st, pitcher or left field. Worked out for me cuz I love playing 1st.

[@kellyjones702]

Same for me I love 1st I’m also the leadoff hitter

[@yk_Its_jax]

i right handed but play all the lefty positions besides the outfield

[@donaldleider7382]

I was a left handed catcher in little league 1966-1968 and a pretty good one. Made a couple of all star teams, the league even supplied me a left handed catchers mitt!

[@eyeofhorus99]

I was a left handed catcher too for two or three seasons. I was either first base or catching.

[@scottmcmulkin1056]

With the whole Tag at home plate thing the Left Handed Catcher could also stand on the other side of the line to tag the runner out

[@alexgonzalez8139]

Love the way u break down your explanations Matt, great job bro.

[@ryanmathews7130]

I caught (righty) from little league through high school. One thing I just thought of in favor of a lefty catcher is about breaking balls. I always found it easier to catch a nasty breaking ball from a left handed pitcher because it would move towards my glove hand. Catching a breaker from a righty usually meant rotating my shlder/wrist across body to catch the ball. So if there tend to be more right handed pitchers on the mound, having a lefty behind the dish makes some sense when it comes to catching curves and sliders from them.

[@kaitain7595]

Killer channel. Would have loved to have this fella as a coach in high school. Pretty cool your first major league hit was off of maddux. Tons of respect your way, Mr. Antonelli.

[@AntonelliBaseball]

Thanks!

[@bayroot510]

I’m happy guys like this are putting out so much good information that we can share with our children. !!! It’s like finding hidden treasure.

[@genebull3837]

You must have been lucky to reach one of Maddux pitches. Most of his strikes were a foot outside.

[@mikejohnson9606]

Antonelli, my dad said the reason that you don't have left handed catchers is because the runner at 1B has a one step advantage in secondary leads. That secondary lead could be the difference in a close play. Also that secondary league could prevent more double plays. My Dad has been gone for 40 years. Thank you for your time.

[@MagSeven7]

I love all the comments. This is a very interesting and debatable subject. In my case, back in the day, as some of the comments said, there were no lefty catchers mitts, so, no lefty catchers. I always wanted to catch. Even in my youth, I had a reputation as a good defensive player (couldn't hit much!), so being lefty, I always played first or right field. It wasn't until I played in an adult fast pitch softball league I got to catch. Totally different animal but.....my dreams came true!!! I've been a LL umpire for 20 years now and see more and more lefty catchers for sure.

[@bowlnow824]

I was a lefthanded catcher in little league. Loved playing that position so much!

[@puffinsmoke7]

Totally correct, as a lefty, as soon was able to throw a ball I was practicing pitching. I agree with learning how to throw straight every time as a catcher, but the natural movement we is hard to correct. I couldn’t throw a ball straight my whole life even with a 4 seam it still had natural movement. Great video 🤘

[@rojoburrito]

I caught, as a lefty, for 5 years in NABA...main reason is nobody else wanted to...I loved it back there with the tools of ignorance on..I had a wicked snap throw to 3rd base ( usually when a right handed batter was in box) caught many a sleepers lolly gagging back to 3rd base...good times great game..

[@wonglee2424]

This is my first video from your channel you explain thing very clearly and for folks don't know some of the insides of the game like using left handed catchers. It's no surprise you have so many views keep up the great work congratulations.

[@kevinanderson967]

The year was 1973 and all I wanted to do was play catcher but being a lefty it was forbidden but I talked the manager into it and I played catcher for a couple of games using my firstbasemens mitt. It was so fun 🤩

[@Niel2760]

Using an illegal glove.

[@kellyjones702]

Haha😂

[@joshuaboothby1090]

My son is left handed. He tried pitching his first couple seasons of little league. He has the arm to do it. But he really isn’t in love with it. But he REALLY enjoys catching and after watching other kids in his league he seems to be a lot better than most of them. But his coaches keep pushing him to pitch or play first. Neither of which he wants to do. It really sucks because he gets discouraged.

[@BlueL1n3]

I think this is a big reason, not that left handed kids don't or cant enjoy catching, it's that the coaches push them and pressure them to play else where. Do right handed kids who enjoy first base get the same pressure to play elsewhere? (Freddie Freeman has made quite the career as a right handed first baseman.) I hope your son doesnt get too discouraged, because catching is fun and if he enjoys it, that is where the coaches need to be playing him. We need to stop pigeon holing kids from playing certain positions just because of what arm they throw with.

[@iandunstan2760]

My son is getting the same thing. It is tough. he doesn't like the pressure of being pitcher but loved being behind the plate.

[@muthafluffindemon747]

I actually got that same treatment when i was playing.. I was damn good at catching when i was younger, i was a lefty catcher. But my coaches kept pushing me to play pitcher, so when I eventually gave in my first year of highschool because i was told i wasn't gonna play if i stayed a catcher I ended up injuring my shoulder and I was bitter for a while afterwards, dropped everything baseball entirely until just a few months ago.. Just make sure the little dude keeps doing it, even if people say otherwise, never force him to play a position he doesn't want to.

[@iandunstan2760]

@@muthafluffindemon747 Hey, thanks for the reply and sorry about your shoulder.

[@nasty3145]

I like the tailong one, lefties always had odd throwing motions. Atleast for me being a righty, they always tailed.

[@baseballman74]

I was a pitcher until college and adult league... I was told and believe that left handed players have the natural tail when they throw. Unless your body compensate your throwing angle by tilting to the right. With that being said, I wish I was a lefty. Most lefties are very natural athletes in many sports! Specially the greatest sports of all, in baseball! Fun video Matt!

[@johngetz8585]

Played ball for over 25 years, and honestly never really thought about it? I like your common sense approach to explanation on the subject. You really broke it down beautifully. Well done, going to watch some more!

[@swisscheese6456]

This is one of my wonders of life I've thought for years. Thank you!

[@user-xu7zb5cm5h]

Never played baseball and watched when I could afford the time... I love how you kept me interested. Appreciate what you do. With that said, from what you've said it probably boils down to the ambition of the parent/coach/athlete to choose pitching over catching. Maybe a pay adjustment in salary in catchers in MLB will help the turnout of lefties in pros.

[@nickcampbell7198]

Love the information you always give.. as a pitcher you concentrate on the catchers glove for location, doesn't matter which side of the plate.

[@benjaminaberg866]

I once saw a lefty catcher and 2nd baseman on the same defense. It was a trip.

[@drossi101]

Second base!? Lmao that would be such a pain to have to turn your whole body to throw to first

[@pcurrie73]

@@drossi101 I got parked at 2nd my first little league year. Way harder than 3rd or short. Ended up on the mound and 1st base eventually, but playing the other positions forced me to compensate by positioning deeper, working on a quick pivot, and depending on my arm strength.

[@drossi101]

@@pcurrie73 lol that would be nuts

[@mikeobiwon]

I remember reading about this in a book or article/column awhile back. I think there were several reasons outlined such as: 1. A left handed thrower with a good arm is likely to be converted to pitcher at some point because of how valuable left-handed pitchers are. 2. Athletic left-handed throwers are also valued at other positions such as center field or right field. Left-handed throwers that can hit well for average or power but aren't the greatest fielders or don't have great arms are likely to end up at first base. 3. Some of the points you outlined in your video. I lost my train of thought while writing #2. 😂 Great video! Keep up the great work!

[@andrewmcnicoll4268]

Crazy statistic: there's a significant gap between left handed hitters and right handed hitters when you get to the big leagues. No idea why, and it doesn't matter which hand the pitcher throws.

[@RAC3504]

Excellent video! I was a Lefty catcher. Caught at every level thru college. Never had an issue because I was a Lefty. Its just a fallacy that everybody buys into as being fact. All of the usual excuses do not hold water.

[@chrisshook8471]

Right handed catchers are better catchers due to the fact they have a better angle to throw to 2nd.

[@chrisshook8471]

@Wes & TKP 66-02 stealing bases will always be a important factor in baseball it allows teams to get a runner into scoring position easily.

[@RalphReagan]

Thanks for posting! I forgot how much fun it was to catch. Born lefty but my marine Corp step dad converted me.

[@hotjoose9415]

They turned them into LH pitchers! Ha.....I wrote that before I watched the video btw!!!

[@SamJohnson-rz5cx]

Yes I've heard him say it before on a another video from 2 years ago

[@bmaldo33]

I was a left handed catcher from little league all the way till high school ball, and my old school coach said, "lefties don't catch. You can pitch." I fell out of love with baseball after that.

[@tylerramjit2772]

Been lefty catching since I was 8 took 2 bad hits got straight up. Collisions happen and I learnt and I learnt how to make a hard throw down to second. Hard throw 3rd and first. I make excellent tags because im fast. Honestly it was hard to learn but I love catching and if you really like catching then you shouldn’t be mad if you have to learn to be fast with it.

[@RustySax1949]

I'm a lefty. I never wanted to catch because I was afraid of getting hit in the head by the batter's bat! So I played 1B or CF, primarily CF because I was the fastest kid on the team and could cover a lot of ground quickly. I was also able to tell as soon as the ball left the hitter's bat which way it was going, so I was always there to back up the LF or RF guys. Was asked a few times to pitch, but told coaches that if they wanted a bunch of walks, I'd pitch. That comment would usually send me to CF. . . Loved playing the game when I was a kid. . .

[@genenile6737]

I was a lefty catcher until high school. My little league found a glove and let me keep it. Didn’t fly in high school, had to go 1B/OF

[@Danny-qk2cs]

Exact same experience.

[@ethansgarlata5387]

My friends a left handed catcher in high school

[@grahammarshall1199]

That was me too, I caught some 50/70 games but when I got to high school I didn’t catch anymore.

[@timefly4221]

I'm a lefty myself so I've taken some interest in this topic, though I never even thought about being a catcher. Before watching through the video, the reason I find most compelling is that you can't block the plate effectively while setting up to catch and tag on a close play at the plate. The legendary "can't throw down to second" reason is BS. There are quite a lot of lefty batters these days, and nobody says that a righty catcher can't prevent a steal when a lefty is hitting because the throwing side is blocked. The other good reason I've heard is that any lefty with a good enough arm to be a high-level catcher would have been steered towards pitching.

[@Cohdiboi]

The issue isn’t throwing out base stealers at second - it’s throwing base stealers out at third. You’re a lefty - imagine trying to quickly pop up out of your crouch and throw to your left side. Feels awkward doesn’t it?

[@matthewb8229]

@@Cohdiboi No different that picking off first as a righty with a left handed batter.

[@Cohdiboi]

@@matthewb8229 right, but the scenario is different. A base runner stealing third isn’t flat footed. If you’re throwing to first to try and pick off a runner, you’re trying to catch him off guard take advantage of him being flat footed. That naturally buys you a split second more time.

[@kipmaronge6512]

Played catcher from 12 through my senior year where I was removed when a new coach came in and threw a true freshman in who had never caught before. It hurt but it still felt good to help teach the kid through my senior season

[@jasonsabbath6996]

I love talking ANYTHING baseball! This was fun.

[@beforehonour]

A small reason: But what about most little league and lower level leagues not having a catcher’s mitt for the right hand, so lefties have to learn to play ambidextrous if they want to catch? The equipment, to me, seems prohibitively expensive for lefties and hard to find. And it seems at that low level, you’re (unintentionally) making it harder for lefties to catch.

[@hockeyboy9]

duh, exactly. Being from venezuela. Good luck finding a left handed catcher mitt in Latin America. You're more likely to win the lottery.

[@eddie_d1233]

I was thinking the exact same thing. There's not enough call for manufacturers to make a right hand mitts.

[@andygraverson1946]

I was going to say the same thing, except that the proliferation of travel ball has caused us to move away from the "team equipment" concept. As a parent of a travel ball player (and he's a catcher), having his own equipment allows him to work on his own. Oh, and Covid has almost made it a necessity for catcher's to have their own gear. Sharing masks is just asking to get sick until we get past this.

[@jeradw7420]

@@andygraverson1946 In most places, travel ball is still the minority. Most communities still have league owned equipment for little league which means an overwhelming amount of right hand gloves.

[@Cohdiboi]

Yeah, but there’s a reason manufacturers don’t make lefty catching mitts. It’s because they realize the mechanics of the game make it harder for a lefty to play catcher in the first place, so they know there won’t wind up being many of them. So they end up not making any.

[@furiogiunta7886]

Benny Distefano was from my neighborhood, we all looked up to him. Every offseason he would help the kids with a free clinic. He was always a catcher, but they move him to first base because he is lefty.

[@sosuapimp8449]

Yo Furio could you swing the bat lefty when you destroyed the Asian massage parlor in the Sopranos?

[@furiogiunta7886]

@@sosuapimp8449 I am switch hitter

[@sosuapimp8449]

@@furiogiunta7886 just like Vito right?

[@toxleclure6485]

It's strange that I never noticed this as I've been a baseball fan most of my life. Thinking back, I vaguely remember playing baseball video games which would force the catcher I would create to be right-handed. I can't recall which game it was, but if I'm remembering correctly then this makes some sense now. Thank you.

[@frozentspark2105]

I was a lefty catcher in high school, used my dad's glove he was a lefty catcher in junior college

[@dtrain8335]

I was a hell of a left handed shortstop.......When I wasn't pitching that is lol. You're absolutely right. I did catch a few games just cause I wanted to try it.

[@FloSchmdt14]

What I read, and thought it really made sense is: If there’s a throw from the outfield up the first base line or a home plate collision or anything like that, it would leave the throwing shoulder open to the runner.

[@reddawng43x91]

That’s exactly rite

[@joeanderson444]

It is so crazy that you are saying all of this because I have looked at the numbers (steal pct. w/ lefties vs righties AB and catchers throwing to first more than third)! I actually thought I was the only person in the world that even cared about stuff like this. Great Video!

[@Martin.Jensen]

It's also hard to find a catches glove for a lefty. I used a first baseman's glove.

[@KrolKaz]

Why didn't you just become a pitcher?

[@Kip3223]

I always wanted to catch as a lefty. My parents already had to buy me a glove, cleats and registration for baseball. Asking them to buy me a right handed catchers mitt in the late 80's early 90's was for two reason hard to do. Try to find a right hand catching mitt and I guarantee the club doesn't have one to borrow you to try it out.

[@pbennett13]

You could make history Matt, developing the next lefty starting catcher in over 100 years... #gamechanger 👍🏾

[@AntonelliBaseball]

Haha let’s do it!

[@naciremasti]

If you read the article Matt's referring to in this video, theres a catcher already doing it. I think the kids like 12.

[@jeffrey-dq3tz]

Ive had the same left handed catchers glove i bought in 1977...yup i'm a southpaw and caught for my brother who was right handed We did this right thru adult baseball here in San Diego up until 1997 when at 35 it was time to hang it up...I caught plenty of flack for being a catcher but we let our playing do the talking Right down to a championship game that we lost in 9th inning because our sure handed first baseman missed an easy pop up..My brother threw a slider that basically dropped and curved away from righties right into my glove that was framed low on outside corner and righties would swing and miss all the time...The adult baseball in San Diego was an awesome league and it brought us so much joy....little reminiscing

[@kennyhouser3467]

Leftie here who had a Dad who played catcher, which in turn became my first position because it was the easiest for him to teach me early on. I can confirm the "there's no leftie catchers because there just isn't" reasoning. Within 3 years of playing catcher my then coach, who was as "old school" as it gets said the same thing you talked about here. "Well you have a cannon for an arm so we are gonna try you on the mound." Then when I wasn't pitching I got parked in the outfield because I had the strongest arm on the team usually. As the years progressed I just became an outfielder who could pitch. This really is a bizarre topic I hadn't given much thought too.

[@andrewgazich2062]

I just asked my wife, as I was trying to have a bit of fun with her... and I kid you not, without hesitation, she said, “Left-handed thrower’s heart is exposed.” I thought about that for a few seconds just shocked she replied without hesitation, as if she’d been training all of her life for that question... and the more I think about it - there may be something there. Lots of foul tips off the chest protector playing as a catcher... I hadn’t thought of it from that angle before.

[@RichmondAtty]

Wow, this is a good answer I had not considered. My son was a pretty good left-handed catcher, until one of his travel coaches forced him to learn how to pitch

[@JABS991]

That would make sense IF batters where only left or right handed exclusively. (And we found that foul tips somehow statistically mattered).

[@bremms1]

Matt, My 11 year old said the same thing. "Good throwing lefties are usually going to be pitchers so they probably wont catch."

[@jeffrey.a.hanson]

100%. I’ve said this for years. A lefty with a good arm who can hit is perfect as your Lefty Starter who moves to 1B. Or starts in RF and comes in as Lefty reliever.

[@nealmac9017]

I always thought it had to do with the angle for throwing out runners stealing second

[@50StichesSteel]

That and they turn their back and shoulder to the first base runner when throwing back to the pitcher..If I had a lefty catcher I would get a huge diving sized lead and run when he lobs the ball to the pitcher

[@ldeue4837]

You just learn to throw open stance...was a lefty catcher for years....nobody stole even 60 left bags on me.

[@50StichesSteel]

@@ldeue4837 Definitley, not saying it's not possible, just less efficient....Also did you struggle making tags at home plate sometimes? Again not saying it's impossible, just less efficient

[@ldeue4837]

@@50StichesSteel I was always pretty small guy so I remember more than anything worrying about not being ran over, or spiked by a cleat. But I do agree the higher in level of competition you go the more difficult it would be to perform as an elite left-handed catcher. The fact there are so few of us is part of it.

[@yucaipawarrior]

@@50StichesSteel I played back before having to leave a running lane for the runners. Catching with the right hand allowed me to use my entire body to block the plate while still reaching for a ball inside the line.

[@Drozzzable]

When I played I had a coach that made all pitchers catch to better understand how difficult it is to play that position. I was left handed and still had to catch. I stopped complaining about past balls real quick. I'm pretty sure my coach was a former disgruntled catcher.

[@gordonwaldner9792]

passed balls

[@atderk]

Holy crap I got it. Holy crap. Mix of a couple reasons u stated. 1) left handed pitchers are told to break to the throwing side. Bc there’s a lot more right handed batters. 2) right handed pitchers would lead opposite to break away from the batter. Bc of course, outside is harder to hit to stretch and sacrifice some power to make contact as opposed to righties just turning on an inside pitch. And with that comes the reason.... A pitch breaking to the left of a righty pitcher. Or the left as a lefty pitcher. Is going into the web and pocket side of a righty catcher. If it was a left handed catcher. They would always b having to wave their hand outside or catch with the palm or wrist of the glove. Not being able to secure the ball in a web as easily as a righty would. And they have to keep dancing off to the right to catch pitches going to that side. As opposed to the ease of a righty just stretching to his right with a left hand. I think that’s it lmk if y’all agree

[@joelombardi4907]

I'm a lefty and when I played ball in the 80's/90's, people would always ask me do you pitch or play 1st base? In my day, everyone wanted a lefty 1st basemen so that can sweep tag on a pick off attempt by the pitcher.

[@nathanrenner1161]

The reason I quit baseball was because my new coach was “old school” and said he would not allow a left handed catcher even though I was the only one with travel experience on that legion team.

[@reddawng43x91]

Ur mom must be proud

[@kevinhofer4922]

What the hell is travel experience?

[@marknc9616]

We had a left handed shortstop in church league softball. He was likely the best athlete on our team. It looked really odd. He would have to field the ball then turn around to throw to first base.

[@travisdiemer4478]

We are talking about catchers

[@CjF2194]

I was once a lefty catcher (took forever to find a glove) when I was 18, and I found it easier to pick off 1st base and and throw out runners stealing 2nd base. I turned my body about 20 degrees to the 1st base so I can quickly pick off runners and to jump up and move out of the way of the righty batters. As tagging the runners was no issue. After I couldn't play catcher in high school (even though I was better than the our righty catcher) I played 1st base "as the rule" says. Only good was that it helped me out catching all the horrible throws my team always did cause I was always able to adjust to what they threw very quickly, this was due to the speed of the pitches and the distance of the pitcher, which we all know is way faster than someone throwing it across the field at a lower speed. Sadly my sports ended due to medical issues but still miss it.

[@garysciulli1950]

I felt you were talking about me. Lol. You’re absolutely on point. A good arm at some point (lefties) especially without great speed for outfield will be honed toward pitching. I “loved” playing 2 position but it just isn’t (wasn’t) an option.

[@erikgabinay7219]

I've talked about this for years but can't get the other coaches on board. Being left handed myself i can tell you they'll have a way better snap throw to 1st

[@connorwallace1319]

This is true I had 2 pick offs during JV to 3rd 4 to 2nd and 7 to 1st

[@Cohdiboi]

Yeah but for the same reason the throw to 1st would be easier, the throw to 3rd is harder. As a catcher, you’re not expected to pick guys off at first that often. But you are expected to be able to throw out base stealers at least some of the time.

[@Sphere723]

@@Cohdiboi Yeah, but you'd get a lot more outs with a good pick to first which can be done hundreds of times a year vs. a steal of 3rd which in the majors happens to a catcher about 4 times a year.

[@Cohdiboi]

@@Sphere723 catchers in the majors only have to throw to third 4 times a year, but there is inherent bias there. Remember, all catchers are righties. It’s rare anyone is going to try and steal third when the catcher has an inherent advantage throwing to third. If that catcher had an inherent disadvantage throwing to third (which a lefty would) you could almost guarantee an increase in the number of guys trying to steal third. That throw would suddenly become more common, and it’s a throw a lefty is at a disadvantage executing.

[@Sphere723]

​@@Cohdiboi The pop-time difference is less than 1/10 of a second. That doesn't alter the reality that a steal of 3B is just tactically unsound most of the time, regardless of how good the catcher is to third.

[@kentpool7414]

Back in the day, when I was in little league, I couldn't catch because there were no left handed gloves. Just sayin.

[@perrytilton5221]

I think this is the real reason. There isn't much money for left handed throwers in general compared to right handed throwers.

[@jeradw7420]

This and right handed batters are the real reasons. In little league most teams only have a right handed glove and most of the players bat right. It's not until middle of high school when players really start batting left. With that, a right hand catcher does have the advantage. By the time you get to the age where the right/left batting balances out, you have already developed your position. I also think he discounts the tag aspect. A catcher is far more likely to tag behind him than the base players. I'm not talk just cross body behind, I mean far behind and a full arm extension with your left hand as over twice the reach as a cross body right hand tag. While a left hand catcher can adapt, there are tangible benefits to playing that spot right handed. A similar argument can be why there are very few sub 6 foot NBA players. While there are some, you would have to admit that taller players have a generally easier time.

[@kentpool7414]

@@jeradw7420 Cross-body tagging. That's the best reason I have heard.

[@jrjohnston7424]

I started catching at 13 in Little League as an "emergency" because our starter was out with injury and NOBODY ELSE wanted to get behind the plate. After 2 games starting, I really enjoyed being there instead of CF. I practiced ON MY OWN throwing from second base to home, to get rid of that "tail throw" and for stealing. The following year I started the entire season behind the plate. I made the Tournament Team, and we went all the way to States. Although we lost at the State level, I was 21 for 22 on put outs. I continued to catch until 16 for Little League. I tried out for freshman ball and ALTHOUGH they wanted me for JV, the coaches WOULD NOT have me behind the plate. They said my glove skills and arm strength was great and wanted me to play first or RF as no "lefties" play catcher. I said "I'm a catcher, and if you won't play me there, I won't play". So I played lacrosse through High School. As an adult, I played in men's leagues and was the starting catcher. In 5 years of playing, I only gave up 2 successful steals. I now TEACH the position to BOTH baseball and softball players. And NOT ONCE has the student or parent asked about the "difficulties" of being left-handed. I APPRECIATE this video, and I hope that the MYTHS of a left-handed catcher disappears.

[@brianmoore1011]

I'm a natural Southpaw. I'm left handed dominant. My dad was a right handed catcher at UGA. He was also an umpire. It's just like someone who already commented down below, who is the son of the catcher you showed in the beginning of this video. With me though, I played catcher a few times & was successful but it is " not supposed to be that way. " Now, yes it is natural & better to have a left-handed 1st baseman & outfielder, but if there are right-handed 1st baseman now, why not a lefty catcher IF trained at an early age. See, I throw with power. A cannon to be blunt & not arrogant. So I was put in right field a lot & some left field. When in the outfield I was taught by my dad to throw over hand like a right handed person. When I was at first base,pitching, & catching I adapted & became more accurate hitting targets precisely, like a sniper, throwing side arm, as well as 3/4 slot. Maybe I'm just different though idk. My dad told me that the POV is way different but the reason why there's not left handed catchers is because they have to jump out in front of the plate &/or go behind the batter in order to make the throw to first & third base which gives the base runners an advantage. Also making the tag at the plate is harder because of the trajectory of the ball coming into the plate from the outfield, infielder, & positioning themselves (lefty catcher) to first catch the ball & blocking the plate. It's not impossible but much harder than a right handed catcher. Hopefully this helps, BUT nothing is impossible. Especially with the right teaching early on & hopefully becoming good enough at it to change people's minds. I'd personally would love to see someone/young prospect come up & prove EVERYONE wrong! IT CAN BE DONE! Work on it & Be THE 1ST in the HOF ALL TIME LEFTY CATCHER 😊🏆💯❗❗

[@DAatDA]

Jiggs Donahue could rake.

[@LuckyC555]

Being a lefty and wanting to be a catcher was a disappointing situation for me growing up in the 80’s. I couldn’t even afford a lefty catching mitt and when I finally found one (thrift store) I wasn’t playing ball anymore. Funny thing is I even resented being a lefty for this and now everybody is a lefty or is being trained to be lefty like this is the golden ticket.

[@cedricgist7614]

I know about resentment. So, I encourage you to embrace your handedness and be grateful you were made that way. I've tried to use both my hands for different things, and to pace myself and it took me decades to accept that I was left-handed. I write left, but throw and hit right; learned to fire a weapon right-handed. Enough about me: you be you!

[@LuckyC555]

@@cedricgist7614 I’m a happy lefty now. Thanks! It was tough, my Grandfather used to get mad at me if I ate left handed like it was taboo. I think it was a culture thing from the old days. Who knows.

[@carybutters]

I bought my Grandson a Lefty's mitt when he was about 8 or 9. He only got to catch a few times. He has always been a standout lefty pitcher and lightning in a bottle in Center and on the base paths. Just signed a full ride to the U. Of Houston Cougars ( D-1 ) . That mitt took forever to get here and was mucho expensive. It all paid off. Many of the scouting journals pick him in the top 100 in America. One guy called him "no doubt 5 tool player with so many options and a natural." Great kid, too. Humble, friendly and a very filthy curve ball and up to 4 other pitches and working on his knuckle ball. Those in the know many times say his bat, fielding, and all else wants he could be "The next big thing." Sounds a bit like recruiting and scouting hod wash> In the end it will be his decision but we have confidence in him and know that he was molded by the baseball Gods so call will work out. He just threw a 7 inning no-hitter and a walk off home run .He stuck out 14 with no batted balls leaving the infield, and when he wasn't doing anything else he sold hot dogs in the stands, LOL ! Check him out if you like . His name is Malachi Lott. If he was your boy would you send him off to college or advise him to take the signing bonus money if it is big enough.

[@Cabernet2000]

Matt, My son is six. He will have limited opportunities in the infield as you know as a lefty. But he is starting out catching. Why??? Because he will see 10 to 1 more balls he has to catch and add into his CPU at practice, game time, bullpen and in the infield when he takes that catchers glove to do practice infield. The amount of balls he catches, sees, angles, backhands, blocks and footwork will be far more than other stagnant positions. Not only his footwork but mimicking others successful footwork from the view behind the plate. That will help him to transition where the body and hands know better than the mind real time. No matter he’s a lefty it’s getting work in until he has to pitch which he will see those deliveries from his vision 1000s of times. Your thoughts? Six brothers, six catchers all found a spot to play but started behind the dish. Best, Joe.

[@brabhamfreaman166]

FWIW Matt - I think you’ve hit the nail on the head re. leftie catcher rarity. It’s just not the *first* positional choice (catcher) for a leftie with a power arm.

[@ninobrown987x]

I also feel like the normal right handed catcher would also be just a split second or so quicker down the first base line while backing up throws than a lefty would. Naturally the lefty's momentum when their getting ready to throw the ball is flowing more towards the third base line than it would the first. This and making the quicker pick off move down to first was always why I understood that there were hardly ever any lefty catchers.

[@lKnOneQ]

That is the reason. Antonelli said it at 6:00 in the video without knowing that is reason why. Throw down to first(from the crouch position often), not third is the reason.

[@ninobrown987x]

@@lKnOneQ what I mean by that is his momentum is going more towards the third baseline, not the first base line. That split second can make a huge difference in a variety of ways.

[@lbi3447]

I am a lefty and was just wondering about this. Thanks!

[@mustangpower9915]

Blocking sliders, slurves, and curves from right handed pitchers would probably be easier for a left handed catcher. These pitches from RH pitchers are breaking down to the catchers glove hand, so they’re not having to turn their wrist to get the glove in a good position. Great video!

[@60CycleSteve]

One of my favorite catchers in high school was a lefty. It was weird as hell, but he knew the game and that's all that really mattered.