A Pitcher's Best Friend

Some say that ground ball double-plays are a pitcher's best friend. This is false.

A pitcher's best friends are the grittiest, most "blue-collar," toughest, and often, the stinkiest guys on the team. They are the hardest workers in practice; they take a beating during games; they unify a clubhouse. They direct traffic in the infield, are the most mentally locked-in, and know the opponent better than anyone on the field. They share the pride when their pitchers are mowing 'em down. They share the pain when their pitchers can't buy an out. They take a great deal of pride in throwing out would-be base stealers, calling a great game for their pitchers, blocking dirt balls, and yes, getting them that low strike call whenever possible.

A pitcher's best friends are his catchers.

Ryan Speier is a professional pitching instructor in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He played professionally for 12 seasons, was a member of the 2007 National League Champion, Colorado Rockies, and has coached at the NCAA Division-I level. Ryan is a dad, husband, and follower of Jesus Christ. Find Ryan on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/CoachSpy23

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