Blue's opinion on pitch framing

[RadioBlue]

Most of the posters on this thread have hit the nail on the head. What one person calls "framing" a pitch is what I call "pulling" the pitch. There are few people in the park that have the ability to see in/out while all can see up/down. If she has to yank a pitch, I'm probably not going to call it. If a catcher pulls a pitch, I'll ask her not to do that.

I see catchers all the time who feel the need to "pull" a pitch that is on the outer third! Why?? It was already a darn strike! Now, you're making those without a great view of in/out wonder why the heck I'm calling a pitch the catcher had to "pull."

True framing is an artform. If done correctly, might be get a call or three a ballgame. But framing is more of how a pitch is received than what happens after the ball is caught.

To give you an example of what I'm talking about, take your left hand and place it palm facing away with your fingers pointing to the right. Now, reach further to the right just outside the "zone". Without moving your arm, curl your fingers into a fist in sort of a wrapping motion. That could get you a call or two a game.

Also, it's better for a catcher on the outside corner (right-handed batter & catcher) to receive the pitch a little farther away from the body. I see too many catcher who receive the pitch too close to their bodies making good pitches look worse than they truly are.