[rwest]

I agree that to use the term "DEEP" is bad form. It implies that the ball hit too far behind the plate and that where it lands is important. However, most pitchers don't understand that. They do understand DEEP. I believe we should use terms that they understand. Its not my job to hold a rules clinic on the field. If by saying "deep" a umpire can get the point across then it doesn't bother me that much. I prefer to say "Its over his shoulder".

I also agree that where the ball lands is of less importance. However, I do use it to judge certain pitches. For instance, a ball that is 6 to 12 feet and lands right behind the plate without touching it, better be called a strike every time. It is impossible from a physics stand point for a ball not to cross through the zone if it is 12 feet or less and lands behind the plate. It had to cross through the back shoulder.

Also, if the ball hit the plate it has to be a ball. So where it lands is important in certain situations.

As far as the mechanics goes, I set up at the top of the strike zone, which in slow pitch is the back shoulder. The mechanics does allow for setting deeper on the 12 foot pitches, but you should set up on the shoulder then drop lower if you need to. However, I've never done that. As a matter of fact, I don't ever remember hearing it at a camp. Maybe they said it, I just don't remember. But the mechanics manual does mention dropping lower on the 12 foot pitches.