Overview
Framing is a catcher's technique of subtly adjusting mitt position and movement when receiving pitches to increase the probability of strike calls. It encompasses both converting borderline balls into strikes and securing calls on pitches within the zone. Tracking data has enabled quantitative evaluation of individual catcher framing ability, revealing annual differences of 2 to 3 WAR between elite and poor framers, making it the largest component of catcher defensive value. NPB catchers like Takuya Kai and Yuhei Nakamura are increasingly recognized for their framing skill.