Hind catcher is the most challenging position in baseball with the possible exception of pitcher, and it takes a good bit of practice to become a great one. The biggest key to being a great hind catcher is that you understand the game of baseball from top to bottom. The good news is that with some effort and practice, the position of hind catcher is very much a position that can be taught. Some are talented and the position comes naturally, while others struggle and must learn everything. Here are five baseball tips that can help you to become a better defensive baseball hind catcher this baseball season:

1. Learn to frame the baseball - This is a very important skill for any catcher that is far from easy, but very much a skill that you can learn with practice. Framing the ball simply means to keep the ball in front of you at all times, between your shoulders. The best way to learn this skill is to have a pitcher purposely throw the ball from different angles in the dirt, and you to block them by positioning yourself in front of the ball. This drill is scary at first, but losing that fear is the biggest part of being a hind catcher. Also, you learn the physics involved with a spinning baseball and what to expect when it hits the ground.

2. Back up first base on ground balls to the infield when no runners are past first base - This skill is easy, and it is all about hustle. You would be amazed how many runs you save over the course of a season by doing this consistently. Do it the first time, and every time.

3. Position your outfielders before each at bat - Baseball is all about positioning, and you are the coach on the field as a catcher. Make sure your infield, outfield, and pitcher are informed of the number of outs, and where they need to be for the current hitter. In addition, make sure that you let your infielders know where to go with the ball in two out situations.

4. Learn the art of blocking the plate - Home plate should be your territory as a hind catcher, and you should refuse to let anyone cross it without earning it. That said, if you have the chance to block the plate legally, you need to take it. This might mean a pile up or two, but you will gain a reputation that will make future runners think twice before rounding third on a close play.

5. Call a smart game - This is the easiest way to become a valuable catcher. Learn your pitchers and their strengths and weaknesses. If you know these, then you can easily choose the pitch to call in most situations. Never go against the grain unless your pitcher has excellent stuff, and you should do just fine in this regard.

Playing catcher in baseball is a rewarding position to be sure. You get to handle the ball on virtually every single pitch, and you are never bored. Still, the physical aspect can be a challenge. Take these tips and implement them into your game, and you will be a respected hind catcher throughout your baseball league.

Image credited to wikipedia commons user Rdikeman