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ASA 2001 Rules Book
Page 232 Two-Umpire System - Slow Pitch
FIELD UMPIRE
2. Under normal conditions, all calls at third base will be made by the plate umpire with the following exceptions:
a. The batter-runner on a triple with no runners on base at
the start of the pitch.
b. All trail runners into third base. <====================
c. Any lone runner on a fly ball advancement.
d. Any return throw from the plate or a cut-off play.
Yes, in the two-umpire system, the plate umpire must be prepared to take responsibility for bases other than home. While anticipation of a play is very important to all umpires, you are still responsible for any type of action around the plate. There are many umpires that just take for granted that if there is no play at the plate, the runner will just glide in and touch the slab of rubber without event. Unfortunately, it doesn't always happen that way, especially when there are defensive players who are not well versed in their positioning.
The priorities on observations and calls start with home and rotate clockwise around the bases. While the priorities may force an umpire to be watching a multitude of things at one time, "Sorry, coach, I just didn't see it" really isn't acceptable in the home plate area.
Mike
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The bat issue in softball is as much about liability, insurance and litigation as it is about competition, inflated egos and softball.
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