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Originally posted by AtlUmpSteve
Quote:
Originally posted by JEL
Quote:
Originally posted by tcannizzo
Plate shoes from a different angle (pun intended).
This past weekend I called 13 ball games (Fri 2, Sat 4, Sun 7). Got hit 5 times on the right foot on the inside of the arch (half-way between the ankle and the heel). From what I can tell, there are no plate shoes that provide protection there. I am thinking about creating a custom protective device, unless anyone has suggestions for an alternative solution.
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Alternative solution;
Point the toes of the right foot towards the pitcher, not at a 90 deg angle.
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That advice would help protect the foot, but it is contrary to the stance preached by the ASA NUS, and what is taught in this area. To be most effective in working the slot, the closer you get to the catcher, the less the catcher can block your visibility, enabling the best and most consistent strike zone. Getting close to the catcher in the slot requires you to turn out the foot behind the catcher (at least a 45 degree angle), so that your knee turns out, instead of bumping the catcher when you drop to your set position at the top of the zone.
As a newer and learning umpire, I would hate to see Tony lose part of the zone because he had to back up, because he turned his foot. This foot is directly behind the catcher; half decent or better catchers will certainly stop the ball in the 5 hole. Sometimes, you just get a run of bad luck.
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Steve,
That IS what was taught at the state ASA clinic this year. It was pointed out to me by Henry and Kinard. It seems that my "heel to toe" is more of a "heel to heel" with the right foot parallel, or at the 45 deg angle to the pitching rubber instead of pointed straight at it. I have tried since then to do more of a heel to toe and spread my stance out a bit more, (not as far as Jim Craig, I get stuck) and have eliminated some problems such as sore knees, and it has increased my visibility of the plate. I have also found that moves me back a bit further from the catcher, but it has opened my plate view as well as my view of the catchers actions. I don't seem to get in the way quite as much. I think this is similar to the "Gerry Davis stance" they talk about on the little ball board, however I am still close enough to the catcher to be able to extend my arm and just touch her. I think the Davis stance puts you further back.
Either way, I have never been hit in the right foot as I recall. I have been hit on the left foot, and about everywhere else though. You watch, tonight I will take everything off the right instep!