Defensive signals For Fastpitch 16U Girls

Question
I would like to know a system for pitching and defensive signals to give to my catcher to be able to rely a pitcher.  Pitch out, pick off by catcher, pick off by pitcher and so on.  Thank you

Answer
That's an interesting question, Dan.  I don't personally use any signals for pick off plays to be relayed to my pitcher.  The only time she would be involved with a pickoff is if you noticed a player returning slowly to the base after a pitch and wanted to attempt a "pitcher pickoff".  I would simply advise my catcher in that situation to quickly relay the ball back to the pitcher and that would clue her that she needs to attempt a pickoff.  Other than that, the pitcher really isn't involved in any pickoffs.  I do like to sneak my short stop in behind third or my second baseman in behind 1st for an occasional pick off attempt and this would require a signal.  Simply have the catcher slap her left knee after giving the pitcher her signal for a third base pickoff involving the shortstop or slap her right knee for a pick off attempt at first involving the second baseman.  Keep in mind you need a very smart catcher with a strong arm when attempting these plays.  If the runner is getting a huge lead, throwing behind them will give them the next base if they are good base-runners.  For a pitch out just have the catcher extend her arm out opposite the batter after the pitcher has received signal and is ready to deliver.
I hate to see Coaches call pitches.  Train your catcher to know what to look for and know the other teams lineup.  If you can teach her to know what to look for as far as where a hitter sets up in the batters box, swing tendencies, and habits, she is in a much better position to call pitches than you are from the dugout.  This also keeps the other team or fans from picking up your signals.  You wouldn't believe how many times I've sat in the stands and after one inning could tell you every pitch a girl was going to throw by simply picking up the simple signals a coach was giving his catcher.  The catcher IS your quarterback on the softball field so make sure you spend a lot of time developing her.  I hope this was helpful and please let me know if I can help with anything else.

Coach Mike