[Andy]

I used to set up with my hands hanging down between my legs in the set position. I was told that this helped protect the "family jewels". When a catcher would set up outside or a low pitch would get away from the catcher, it seems the ball would always bounce up and get my hands. Never anything serious, but it hurt like crazy for a few minutes.

I recently started tucking my elbows in tight to my side and keeping my hands alongside my knees. This has kept my hands from getting hit, but I have taken a few more balls in the vicinity of the groin area. My most important piece of equipment will take care of that, however. (as ugly as I am, the cup is more important than the mask).

The important thing to remember is not to rest your hands on your knees or legs. If you do and the ball hits you in the hand while it is resting against your legs, there is nowhere for your fingers to go and broken bones can happen.