Pitchers and catchers reported to spring training camps across Arizona and Florida this week, signaling the unofficial start of the 2026 Major League Baseball season and putting the focus early on one of the game’s most demanding positions.
Catchers are traditionally among the first players to arrive, tasked with building relationships with pitching staffs, learning new scouting reports, and setting defensive foundations before full squads assemble later this month. With teams limited to 13 pitchers on regular-season rosters, the importance of dependable catching depth has only increased.
Several clubs enter camp with established starters behind the plate, while others will use the spring to sort through competitions for playing time. Veteran catchers are expected to take on leadership roles immediately, guiding young pitchers through bullpen sessions and live batting practice while helping coaches install defensive systems.
Spring training also provides critical opportunities for younger catchers and non-roster invitees. Strong defensive work, game-calling, and improved plate discipline can influence roster decisions long before exhibition games begin in earnest later in February.
The catching position places unique physical demands on players, making early conditioning and workload management a priority. Teams often ease catchers into full activity, emphasizing footwork, blocking drills, and throwing programs as camp opens.
Across the Cactus and Grapefruit Leagues, early workouts this week focused on defensive fundamentals and pitcher-catcher communication, with full-squad workouts expected within the next several days.
Opening Day remains nearly two months away, but for catchers reporting to spring training, preparations for the 2026 season are already underway.
