Overview
Game calling is the catcher's craft of sequencing pitch types and locations by synthesizing batter weaknesses, game situations, and pitcher repertoire condition. Japanese baseball places extraordinary emphasis on catcher game-calling, believing it significantly determines pitcher performance. However, data analysis shows ERA differences when the same pitcher works with different catchers typically range only 0.2 to 0.3 runs, a limited impact compared to pitcher-to-pitcher ability gaps. MLB is shifting toward bench-directed pitch calls via PitchCom, transforming catchers from decision-makers to executors. NPB's catcher-led calling culture remains firmly entrenched.