[chris s]

Originally posted by His High Holiness

It does not only happen with teenagers. Each year in my association, we have at least one ugly incident where a college or men's league catcher deliberately misses the ball in order to get back at an umpire.

The last time that I used an FYC (2000 or 2001) concerned a catcher missing the ball deliberately. It happened in the eighth inning and everybody knew what had happened.(My partner came to me between innings and asked why I had not ejected the catcher.) Instead, I waited until he came to bat in the top of the 10th inning. I told the catcher (of the other team) to line up 6, 12, and then 18 inches outside for three pitches. I called them strikes all three times. When the batter voiced his displeasure on the last pitch, I ejected him. I should have ejected him in the eighth inning and it was a mistake to handle it the way that I did, but I sent a big message.

I have been faced with less than competent catchers even at high levels. Sometimes the good catcher gets hurt and the backup is no good. In men's league games, I have gone to the mound or even behind the screen on one occasion. In college ball, I have done something which may work for the rest of you:

Use the scissors and position your crotch behind the catcher's helmet. In other words, if the catcher lines up outside, you are out there with him. You are using his body to block the ball. Place both arms behind you like a little league umpire. Get down as far as possible so that your head can barely see over his shoulder. Your head should be at the same level of the catcher's head.

If the catcher moves on the pitch, move with him. Forget about good mechanics or seeing the ball. If you do not see the pitch (and that will happen 2 or 3 times a half inning with these mechanics), call a ball. Eventually, the coach will get the message and put in a catcher who can at least block the ball.

Peter

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You are a ruthless SOB, I would love to work with ya!!!!!!