Quote:
Originally posted by Mark Land
Should you be more sure about a HBP than a foul? Perhaps. Go with your best call. I agree you can only call what you see. That seems to be a "yes" or "no" question. As Jon pointed out, get help from the batter. Does this add up to 110%? I don't know; as an ump I only have to count to 4.
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Mark,
Welcome to the Forum. I'm not sure if this is your first visit or not. I don't want to start you off here on a negative note, but I think as an umpire you at least need to be able to count to 9! (grin) Remember, you have to be certain that the defense has all nine of its players on the diamond at the start of a half inning.
I too was pleased to read Jon's explanation of that event at UT. I suspected there was a reasonable explanation as to why U2 didn't make a verbal call, even though he later admitted seeing the HBP. Having 2 CWS officials in your crew, when you apparently only have 6 games at that school under your belt, will do it to you every time, I'd say! (grin) I swear that I have NEVER been intimidated by the level of play I have been asked to call. OTOH, I certainly HAVE initially been intimidated when calling for the first time with some of the most respected officials in our country, including our No. 1 ranked official. Anyone who really wants to impress will understand why that happens.
Cheers,