My thoughts which pertain to a Catcher who is talented, skilled at his position. Higher levels of play or higher levels of catching ability. Random, not in order of importance.

1) F2 movements in setting up are slow and easily followed by PU to position himself
2) There is recognition of F2-PU relationship; there is fun and hard work, honest commo.
3) Balls in dirt are handed back automatically for potential replacement.
4) F2 asks for ball immediately on an out of play foul.
5) Always gets a "T" before going to the mound
6) Never discusses his at bats
7) Will be HIGHLY proactive if F1 is posturing or verbally complaining.
8) Takes in stride strikes called ball

Others? About 100 or so.

Those are all excellent...

here are a few of mine to add.

1)Hustles in and out
2)Knows when to throw it down
3)Knows how many warmups to give a pitcher

quote:

Originally posted by piaa_ump:
Those are all excellent...

here are a few of mine to add.

1)Hustles in and out
2)Knows when to throw it down
3)Knows how many warmups to give a pitcher

Like the last one especially.

Add:
4) Calls for his pinch runner (if allowed)
5) Dressed and ready to go between innings
6) Slows down warmup to allow for PU to get water, take a break, etc

I always made it a point to go talk to the pitcher whenever the ump got hit with a pitch (just like he'd clean the plate when I got drilled). I know this is SOP, but I do have to remind the catcher's I coach now to give this common courtesy.

As you said this is an unwritten courtesy between umpires and catchers.........

The catcher takes a hit, I call time, inspect the baseball...throw it out...get a few new pearls, or clean the plate..

I take a shot.......catcher gives me a minute to shake it off....

We are all hard core (catchers and umpires) and dont want to let it show.....but trust me we appreciate it.