quote:
Originally posted by bob jenkins:
No.
For signals between umpires (number of outs, coverage, rotation, etc.) it doesn't really matter what hand you use.
For signals to the players / coaches / fans (out, strike, giving the count), it should be consistent.
Bob:
What you say is accurate, but I've always taught that signals should be with the left hand if there is any possibility the crowd/scoreboard keeper, etc., will misunderstand.
Left hand on HBP. for example, because if you point with the right they might argue you actually called a strike, in which case the batter stays in the box.
I ALWAYS signalled the number of outs with my LEFT hand.
Naturally, outs and strikes are right-handed calls, unless you're that NCAA umpire who calls in about 500 CWS games and who didn't have a right arm.
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Papa C
Editor, eUmpire