The bullpen catcher is unique in sports. He is not a player. He is not a coach. He squats in the bullpen before, during and after games, receiving pitches from anyone who wants to throw them. He calms over-amped relievers and reassures nervous ones. He helps pitchers feel important. He keeps track of what each one needs, physically and emotionally, and he provides it. He knows none of this is about him. His is a position of ultimate service.
When the broadcast flashes to an image of a reliever warming up, the bullpen catcher is sometimes in the shot, but off to the side. Every baseball fan knows he is there. But they never know his name. They never see his face. They never give him a thought.
The bullpen catcher is easy to miss. Until he is gone.
