In terms of catching, what does handling a pitcher actually mean?

This is NOT how you handle a catcher:

What they are talking about having a good catcher that does much more than just catch balls and strikes!

A good catcher will help manage the pitching staff in under standing what makes them click, what is working and what is not, if the pitcher struggles, he will help get him back into the right rhythm, if he is doing well, he keeps them going.

It should not take a coach visit to help get a pitcher back on track; a catcher handling the pitcher can do that!

The guy in the picture (Varitek) handling also happens to be one of the best in the game at handling his pitchers. It's why he still starts despite hitting .220. In the picture he's giving a facial to a third baseman.

Knowing...

1a. Making the pitcher confident in your recieving and blocking abilities...so that he pitches with confidence.

1. When a Pitcher is having an "On" day vs. an "off" day.

2. when certain pitchers are "working" on a given day and which one's arent...and potentially calling a game accoridngly.

3. What makes each pitcher "click" and what bothers them.

4. what the pitcher's objective or gameplan is when facing a certain batter in a certain situation ..and potentially calling the game accordingly.

5. The strengths and weaknesses of the pitchers are...and at times encouragin them to believe in themselves or certain pitch when they don't.

6. When to pick and when not to

7. When and what to say something to the pitcher...and when to keep your mouth shut.

8. When to calm the hot-head and fire-up the meek.

9. Working the umpire and the strike zone on their behalf..and expanding the zone when its practical.

10. Protecting the pitcher in the case of an altercation.

11. Appearing confident and reassuring when the pitcher is in a "jam".