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Originally posted by C rabby
I am umpiring 9-10 year olds, and am curious how liberal I should be with regard to the strike zone. I did a game last night; and was not giving the outside off the corner pitch to the pitcher. I am wondering if I should have; many of those pitches were close to, but not on the corner.
Also, what is a good way to not call the high pitch as a strike? I am seeing a lot of small (really small!) players and it is hard to judge sometimes. Thanks in advance!
Before I comment on your thread, I have a recommendation for you. Right now you are umpiring the "rugrats" but if you would like to advance, etc., attend a clinic and there you will get plenty of practice on mechanics. There are hours spent just on calling outs / safes and many more concerning the strike zone.
Also, as fast as rules and rule interpretations are changing, so are the way mechanics are being taught. Before, you get any bias from someone, attend a clinic and learn for yourself as to what works best for you.
There are basically 3 stances behind the plate - The Box, scizzors and getting down on 1 knee. All are acceptable and the clinicians will go over all of these with you, so you can choose the one you feel most comfortable with and also gives you a good look at the corners.
Umpiring 9/10's is not easy, I suggest you form a box around home plate as to where your strike zone is. Whenever the ball hits that box area - it's a strike. By doing this, it takes away the guesswork.
As Peter recommends, have a wide strike zone, if your uncomfortable with 6 inches off the plate, then move towards 4 which is not unreasonable.
The bottom line in these youth levels is to get the kids to swing the bats, otherwise you will still be playing. BTW, on average how long have your games been running?
No-one likes walk-a-thons, also the fielders especially young ones lose interest real fast when they do not see any action come ther way.
Also, when players know that you do not have a postage for a zone they are more apt to swing.
Good Luck!
Pete Booth
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Peter M. Booth
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