WATCH: Carson Kelly's guide to perfecting footwork behind the plate

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - Saturday, February 15 2025

Marquee Sports Networks' Elise Menaker caught up with catcher Carson Kelly to break down the different types of footwork it takes to play behind the plate for a full nine innings.

Watch the interview below:

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Video summary/cliff-notes:

(00:00) Elise Mener interviews Carson Kelly, new Cubs catcher, discussing his footwork and arm strength.

(00:27) Carson explains different crouch positions, including using one leg to hold the run game, and the shift to a more efficient one-knee position.

(00:57) One-knee position helps with blocking, stability, and athleticism, allowing for a wider range of motion.

(01:30) Carson shares how his weight distribution helps with movement and throwing efficiency when on one knee.

(01:59) The importance of maintaining flexibility in footwork to avoid anticipating plays too early, ensuring you’re ready to adjust based on the runner’s actions.

(02:28) Focus on keeping the foot at the correct angle during throws to ensure power and accuracy, especially when throwing to second base.

(03:28) Emphasizing the value of improving transfer and footwork to make up for arm strength limitations.

(04:02) Carson describes the complex mental checklist a catcher goes through during a game, balancing strategy, awareness, and reading the game.

(04:55) Discusses how catching is about first securing the ball, then making the most efficient throw to the base, particularly with the larger bases.

(05:23) The importance of aiming for a specific target on throws to minimize mistakes and increase accuracy, referencing the “aim small, miss small” principle.