One of the most hazardous jobs of any catcher is blocking the plate with a runner trying to score. Piazza鈥檚 theory is that the catcher needs to be as prepared as possible by considering who the runner is and knowing the throwing tendencies of the fielders who may try to cut down the runner. This way, the catcher can begin to anticipate what might happen and avoid being in a dangerous, awkward position.
It鈥檚 also wise to consider the game situation. In the early innings, Piazza will give a runner a 鈥渓ittle bit of a lane鈥� to slide so he doesn鈥檛 put himself at undue risk. He says he owes that to his teammates, since by staying in the game, the catcher continues to make a contribution and may alter the outcome with his hitting.
