Quote:
Originally posted by YoungRighty
I'm now a veteran of a whopping 20 games or so behind the dish. I have made a few adjustments and feel like for the most part I'm seeing the ball pretty well now. I have been told by experienced partners that I'm doing a decent job of keeping my head still and that I don't have any major problems with stance, etc. But I still feel like I'm struggling to be consistent with the low pitch.
Does anyone have any general advice or tips to help me develop more consistency on these? Or do you think I just need to see more pitches?
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In helping young umpires call the low strike I stress take your time as Bob said and follow the ball all the way to the mitt with your eyes.
Also, its easier to call the low strike by moving the head a little higher and also to move into the slot a little more. That helps to follow the ball across the plate and to the mitt.
If you are in your stance and cannot see the mitt then you need to change your stance.
The umpires worse enemy is the F2 who lets the ball come all the way to him and doesn't frame the low strike because it makes it look lower than it was.
Also remember, the low zone changes by batter. The guy who is 6'4" look at his knees before the pitch. I look in relation to the catcher's shin guards.
Then the guy who is 5'3" and who squats, look at his knee again in relation to the chin guards of F2. That helps me establish a focal point for the ball crossing the plate.
And lastly, its a game by game struggle. Some games you might starts a little low, ask your partner how's the low zone look. You can still change it a little early in the game. Then as the game goes on, you'll get the best compliment, "well, he's been calling it there all night."
Good luck
Thanks
David