Question about dead ball era catchers

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Posted By: runscott

"The catcher has two positions. The first is used before the ball is pitched and its main purpose is to exchange signals with as much secrecy as possible. In this crouch well down with the feet together and hold the mitt in the angle formed by your body and thighs..."

"The second position is the one taken as soon as your signal has been understood and accepted. Stand up with the body leaning forward and the glove and ungloved hand extended toward the pitcher...The feet should be spread far enough apart to give you a firm stand but do not sprawl out to such an extent as to prevent your jumping to either side or into the air with greatest amount of speed. From this position you can handle wide pitches to either side of the plate or make a jump for a high-thrown ball. It will also get you started fast in getting foul flies. In throwing to base you can step out to either side with ease and send the ball down to the base with the least amount of delay."