Catching is arguably the most difficult and important task in baseball. Positioned behind home plate, the catcher can see the whole field, and therefore is in the best position to direct and lead the other players in a play. The catcher typically calls the pitches, and therefore requires awareness of both the pitcher's mechanics and strengths and the batter's weaknesses. In addition, because the catcher's job is to catch pitches, which often come in at speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour, the catcher wears protective eqiupment including a mask, chest protector, knee pads, and extra-thick glove. Despite this, catcher's routinely suffer the worst physical abuse in baseball, constantly getting bruised and battered both by pitches and by runners sliding into home plate. Catchers also have a long history of knee ailments, stemming from the awkward crouched position they take when receiving pitches.

Some famous catchers include: