[PeteBooth]

Originally posted by His High Holiness

Mike has put his finger on another truism. It is easier to track the flight of an object moving away from you, than towards you. Besides being relaxed, it is another reason that the base umpire (from B or C) can more accurately call pitches than the plate man.

Peter I always wondered why the PU was needed other than to call Fair / Foul on those close down the line shots. You are right it is much easier to call Balls / Strikes from the mound. Also, F2 cannot block your view from the mound.

The only thing the PU might have a better view on is did B1 hit the pitch out of the box or not. However, when comparing advantages vs. disadvantages from doing the game behind the mound, IMO there are more advantages.

The problem at least in my association is that when umpiring solo - you must be behind the plate.

Leagues could save themselves money by simply assigning one man crews, if umpiring from behind the mound was acceptable.
Also, think of the money we could save - Plate Shoes / Inside Protector / Shinguards / Mask / Plate Pants and misc. accessories associated with doing the plate.

Pete Booth