University of Richmond Political
Science and Leadership Studies major, John Nathans is entering his senior year and will be
the starting catcher for the Spiders next season. Savvy, with a tough, gritty
determination behind the plate, Nathans understands his role and carries it out with an
iron will. It was watching Gary Carter, his childhood idol while growing up, that
influenced his decision to become a catcher. Today, this 21 year old native of Warwick,
N.Y., takes in stride the bumps and bruises that come with his trade in the hope that one
day he too might work behind the plate in the major leagues.
How tough is it to be behind the plate?
For someone just starting it’s tough. But, I’ve been
catching all my life. The bumps and bruises each tell a story. For me it’s the most
enjoyable spot on the field.
If you see that your pitcher is having an off day, what can you do as a
catcher?
You have to look at the personality of the guy on the mound. Some guys
you need to take a little extra care with, others you can give it to them straight and get
a fire under them. You have to let him know that your confident he can get the job done
and that you believe in him.
Catching has been compared to quarterbacking. In what way are they
similar?
A quarterback is another coach. He sees the entire field and has the
big picture. It’s the same catching. You can see things that the coaches don’t,
like the eye contact between the hitter and the third base coach.
What is the most important thing that a catcher does?
You have to be stable, so I’d say he lends stability to the team.
I work as hard as I can for my pitcher and when I’ve done that I’ve done my job.
How much influence can a catcher have on an umpire in getting the calls
for his pitcher?
Quite a bit. You have the ability to frame a pitch, getting an inch or
two up or down or to the left or right. You want to establish a trusting relationship with
the umpire by talking with him, letting him know when a pitch is in there. Your always
working to get a call your way.
What goes through your mind when your blocking the plate in what you
know will be a close play at home?
That’s my home and I have to have the mentality that I am going
to protect it at all costs. You make the play, take your licks and get back in the game.
What is the most difficult play a catcher can be called upon to make?
Fielding a good bunt down the third base line, picking the ball up and
throwing off your back foot with a lot of gear and your momentum going the wrong way. You
don’t have time to set your feet.
What is the most important quality a player needs in order to be a good
catcher?
A good baseball IQ. He has to know the game and be able to think about
a lot of different scenarios and possibilities at once. You need a solid knowledge of the
game.
What has been the highlight of your career?
Going to the Regionals last year and playing Wake Forest in the finals
and the CAA Tournament this year vs James Madison. I had two home runs, five RBI and
scored five runs. I went five for five.
What do you hope the future holds for you in baseball?
I hope somebody gives me an opportunity to play at the next level,
either by the draft or free agency. Then I’ll just see where it takes me from there.
The Sandwich Enterprise
July 14, 2000 by Dan Crowley
