Quote:
Originally posted by bdub712
I have done a number of games this year and I see this situation happening from time to time...
Runner on 1st, no outs. Batted ball goes to SS and flips easily to 2nd. The throw goes to 1st.
The question comes as to where is the proper positioning for the base umpire to get the call correct at 2nd and the correct angle at 1st.
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My first direction is to head to the cutout of the mound. First base side, no futher than the pitching plate. Pivot and open my self to watch SS field the ball and release to 2nd.
Watch F4 and action as best as possible and then look for release of ball to 1B. After watching release I try to get at least one step or more towards first and /or line, get set, look at base and listen for catch. I generally let the runner get 5-10 feet past the bag and then make my call.
Don't get to close to first and lose the whole picture. This is especially true when there is a bad throw and a tag to follow. Also be prepared to drift to the foul line if necessary to adjust for a pulled foot by F3.
If in doubt what to do on most all infield plays, head to the area around the mound and open yourself to the ball and play. From there, you will at least start out equi-distance to all the bases.
Good point by Tee that I missed, Read the throw to first.
[Edited by jicecone on Mar 24th, 2005 at 12:01 PM]