How to Steal More Strikes: Mastering The Low Ball
- Michael Gulino
- May 6
- 2 min read
If you want to change the game as a catcher, you need to win low. Not just survive down there; dominate.
The best catchers in baseball separate themselves because they consistently steal strikes at the bottom of the zone. Umpires reward what looks easy and quiet, not frantic glove jabs and panic movements.
If you want to steal more strikes, it starts with how you catch the low ball — and it’s way more technical than most players realize.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Get Your Pocket Underneath the Ball
The number one mistake catchers make on low pitches is trying to lift the ball after it hits their glove.
By then, it’s too late.
You have to start with your pocket already underneath the ball path — so when it enters your glove, it’s a clean catch up through the zone, not a drag or a scoop.
Tip: Think of it like catching an egg from under it.
2. Relax Your Glove Hand
If your glove is stiff, you’re going to push or fight the ball.
A relaxed glove lets the ball naturally pull your hand up and stabilize the pitch. That’s what looks easy to an umpire and what gets you the call.
Tip: Stay relaxed in the glove until the ball is almost on you — then lock it in at the last second.
3. Start Late, Stop Fast
One of the most important — and overlooked — keys to stealing strikes:
Start as late as you can, and stop as fast as you can.
If you move too early, the umpire sees your glove drift and it looks like you're working for the strike. If you stop too slow, it looks like you’re dragging the ball into the zone. Neither wins.
Tip: Trust your eyes. Trust your hands.
4. Let the Ball Do the Work
You don’t need to force the glove up. If you set your pocket right, stay relaxed, and start late, the ball will naturally pull your glove upward.
Your job is to stabilize it; not sell it.
Tip: Work on catching low strikes by letting the ball’s momentum work for you, not against you.
Bottom Line:
Stealing strikes isn't about fooling umpires. It's about making borderline pitches look easy; like they belong there.
It takes daily work, focus on details, and a mentality of “quiet hands win.”
Master the low pitch, and you'll be the catcher every pitcher wants to throw to.
Want to work on mastering your receiving?
Check out "The Art of Receiving" a 7 day progressive program https://www.gulinobaseball.com/courses and start stealing more strikes today.
If you're looking for personalized coaching sign up for G-Train! Monthly 1 on 1 training both physically and mentally to help you gain an advantage on your competition.
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