The Backpick Podcast dives into the catching position and all aspects of the game to help educate players, parents and coaches. From players, coaches, trainers, mental professionals, anyone that is willing to share information to help you get better.
We're going in depth with guests talking about their experiences, processes, routines, and anything that's helped to make them successful.
No middle man.
No BS.
Straight from the best to you.
The Details of Catching with Tyler Heineman, Toronto Blue Jays
Ever wondered what a Major League catcher really thinks about when the ball is flying at 100 mph? Join Toronto Blue Jays catcher Tyler Heinemann as he breaks down the elite art of receiving, blocking, and managing a big league pitching staff from the perspective of a true technician.
In this episode of the Back Pick Podcast, host Brett Thomas sits down with Tyler to nerd out on the technical side of the catching craft. Tyler shares his unique insights on why he views the game from an over the shoulder umpire perspective and how he adjusts his setup for different pitchers like Max Scherzer, Kevin Gausman, and Chris Bassitt.
We dive deep into the upcoming ABS challenge system, the mechanics of the one knee down stance, and the selfless mentality required to be an elite backup catcher in the MLB. Whether you are a young player looking to improve your blocking or a fan who wants to understand the nuances of the strike zone, this conversation covers everything you need to know about the most demanding position on the field.
Chapters
0:00 Intro and Blue Jays Season Recap
4:20 The Mentality and Role of a Backup Catcher
8:45 Defensive Goals and Offseason Improvements
11:55 Catering Setups to Elite Pitchers
15:40 Communication with Pitchers and Coaches
19:30 Receiving Mechanics and the Umpires View
24:10 Understanding the Umpire Buffer Zone and Hawkeye
28:50 How the ABS Challenge System Works
33:40 Game Strategy for Successful Challenges
38:15 Blocking Techniques and One Knee Down Benefits
42:45 Lateral Blocking and Pitch Movement Calculations
47:10 The Mental Approach to Blocking and Relaxation
49:30 Toronto Food Recommendations and Closing
If you enjoyed this deep dive into the craft of catching, make sure to like the video and subscribe to the channel. We bring you expert insights from the best in the game every other week. Don't forget to follow us on social media for more tips and drills.
#baseball #catching #bluejays #mlb #catcher
1 Jun 2026
How to Coach Catchers with Chase Wullenweber, Seattle Mariners
Are you an amateur catcher looking to take your game to the professional level? In this episode of the Back Pick Podcast, we sit down with Mariners catching coach Chase Woollenweber to break down the science of elite catching. From mastering the one-knee setup to training for chaos behind the plate, this conversation is a masterclass in modern catching development.
Chase shares his journey from division two baseball to coaching in the Mariners organization. He emphasizes the importance of building trust with players and simplifying complex concepts, especially when working with athletes who speak different languages. We dive deep into why catchers shouldn't just be placed on a knee but must be taught how to move and react from that position effectively to avoid the common mistakes seen in amateur ball.
A major focus of this discussion is the idea of training for chaos rather than repeatable solutions. Chase explains how he uses specialized tools like the Traject, e-hack machines, and Marv balls to create unpredictable environments that force catchers to adjust in real-time. We also explore the fine details of glove speed, timing, and how to keep strikes as strikes by adopting a pro-level mindset similar to stars like Patrick Bailey.
Finally, we touch on the mechanics of blocking and throwing. Chase explains why accuracy is king and how to use trial and error to find the most effective stance for your individual body type. Whether you are a player, coach, or parent, these insights into professional-level training will change the way you look at the position.
Chapters
0:00 Intro and Guest Background
2:45 Coaching Philosophy and Building Trust
5:30 Simplifying Communication for Development
8:15 Catching Setups and Individualization
11:00 Understanding Glove Loads and Pitch Plane
14:30 Training for Chaos vs Repeatable Solutions
18:00 Utilizing Advanced Tech Traject and E-Hack
21:15 Marv Balls and Improving Glove Speed
25:00 Timing and Pre-Pitch Preparation
29:30 PVC Pipe Drills for Patience and Path
33:00 Body Loads and Lateral Stability
36:45 Keeping Strikes Strikes The Patrick Bailey Mindset
40:15 Modern Blocking and Glove-First Techniques
43:30 Accuracy and Throw-Down Mechanics
45:59 Closing and Favorite Food Spots
If you enjoyed this deep dive into catching mechanics, make sure to like the video and subscribe for more expert interviews. Let us know in the comments what your favorite catching drill is!
#baseball #catching #mariners #coaching #backpickpodcast
4 May 2026
Willie MacIver talks Staying Calm Under Pressure
Ever wondered what it takes to catch at the highest level of professional baseball? In this episode of the Backpack Podcast, Toronto Blue Jays catcher Willie Maciver joins us to break down the physical and mental demands of life behind the plate. From technical stance adjustments to the killer mentality needed in the box, Willie shares the secrets that helped him reach the majors.
Willie dives deep into his transition to the big leagues, explaining why catching is as much about feel and trust as it is about scouting reports. We explore the technical shift from traditional stances to the modern one-knee-down approach and how it impacts receiving and blocking. Willie also shares invaluable advice on the mental side of the game, including the importance of breathing through high-pressure situations and maintaining a fearless mindset.
We also talk gear, specifically why Willie trusts All Star Sporting Goods for his protection and performance. Whether you are a young player looking to improve your defensive skills or a fan wanting a behind-the-scenes look at MLB preparation, this conversation is packed with pro-level insights.
Chapters
0:00 Intro and Welcome Willie Maciver
4:10 Adjusting to the Big Leagues
8:25 Transitioning from Infield to Catcher
12:40 The Evolution of the One Knee Down Stance
17:15 Advanced Receiving and Glove Work
21:50 Throwing Footwork and Arm Slots
26:10 Insights from Shea Langeliers
30:45 Managing Pressure and Breathing Techniques
35:20 The Benefits of Multi Sport Athletics
39:55 Training vs Game Mindset
44:30 All Star Sporting Goods Gear Review
48:50 Baseball Bites and Favorite Food Spots
51:52 End of Video
If you enjoyed this deep dive into the art of catching, make sure to hit the like button and subscribe for more expert baseball content.
#baseball #catching #mlb #allstar #baseballtraining
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.8 / 5
21 ratings
Spotify
4.9 / 5
68 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 43 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
58
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
71
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