GD - I think I get what you're saying. The weird thing isn't the C backing up first, it's that the catcher is running almost directly up the baseline rather than swinging out to be in better position for a botch or overthrow.
100% correct sir.
GD - I think I get what you're saying. The weird thing isn't the C backing up first, it's that the catcher is running almost directly up the baseline rather than swinging out to be in better position for a botch or overthrow.
The catcher won't get too worn out if the batters aren't hitting too often. Especially, if there are runners on.
Most softball fences are 200-225 ft, and we cheat our RF towards the foul line, so it is a much easier play for RF to backup throws to 1B, plus throws from 3B and SS would angles towards RF.
This is the way I was taught, and continued to do it right up until I was 50yo as long as there was no runner starting on 2nd or 3rd.
And in doing so, I added about a dozen put outs a season @ 1B when OF would throw behind the runner who would not be used to a C covering the base.
To me it is just good, ol' hustle and a smart catcher.