On deck batter (listen carefully)

Segment 19 in "trick or treat" month.

Many times the way a catcher sets up in the catcher's box it will tip what pitch is coming. It isn't always foolproof but there are times when it certainly would reveal the pitch that is being thrown.

The best example of this lies with same side matchups. In other words, righty vs. right or lefty vs. lefty.

When the catcher sets up on the inside corner in these situations the pitch will be a fastball. There is no earthly reason why a catcher would set up on the inside corner on a same side matchup and throw anything other than a fastball. So, the on deck batter sees it and what can he do about it?

The on deck batter can verbally communicate to the hitter with some deft verbal cues. Listen for #'s, names, other consistent things being said. But, regardless of what they are saying, you need to be aware that on deck batters sometimes aren't just talking for fun. They are talking with a purpose.