[IRISHMAFIA]

Don,

I think the book is quite clear. It definitely says ALL trailing runners and that is exactly how I have been taught at the state and national level.

Yes, the preface to the Two-Umpire System states that there is little attention paid to the runner approaching home when there is no apparant play. That means that the umpire doesn't need to stay back and position him/herself for a play that probably isn't going to happen. The PU should locate the ball in the field and see if his/her partner is okay getting to where s/he needs to be, but when that lead runner is approaching the plate or vicinity of defensive players, his/her attention must be focused there.

If you think explaining to a defensive manager about a tag at 3B might be difficult, try explaining to him why you didn't see the runner miss the plate because you may have been distracted by the actions of a fielder or runner in the field and you didn't glance back in time. I saw it happen in a three-umpire system. The PU was watching the ball on the way in from the outfield and it was a high throw. By the time he turned back to the plate the runner was already heading toward the dugout with the discarded bat in his hand. Nearly 200 people saw him miss the plate, but they umpire had no idea.

Anytime a runner lolligags between bases is the most likely time a defender will make that unanticipated throw and catch everyone offguard, including the blue.

Well, I can't argue what and how you were taught since I wasn't there. Like I said before, as long as the crew communicates, they can basically change coverage on every play.

Just one question though. What happens if the BU doesn't get inside quickly assuming there is no play at home and the PU will have 3rd covered. But while he is watching the BR touch 1B, the runner slips and the defender uncorks one toward home. Obviously, you have to stay there. The ball is cut for a quick throw back to 3B for a banger. Somebody is going to be upset, no matter who makes the call.

JMHO