[PeteBooth]

Originally posted by Matthew F

I have been told/taught to use the timing signal with two outs and a runner on 2nd. If the purpose is to "inform" each other of the possibility of a timing play, why shouldn't it be used in other situations?

1) With 2 outs and R1 at first, there is a potential timing play if the BR hits for extra bases...

2) With 1 out and runners at 2nd and 3rd, there is a potential timing play if the BR is forced and a play made on the runner at 2nd...


Umpiring Mechanics IMO is like learning Microsoft EXCEL, meaning there is the beginning stages and then the advanced stage.

When one first leans EXCEL you learn how to open up a spreadsheet, perform basic math calcs and save the file. When you get to the advanced stage, one knows how to import and export files, prepare graphs, etc.

Umpiring mechanics are similiar. In the beginning you learn the basics.

Example; even now when B1 gets hit with the pitch I haear umpires call Dead ball when the proper mechanic is to signal and say TIME. Same is true with hand signals.

The reason one signals the "timing play" with R2 and 2 outs is to make certain your partner on the bases gives the OUT call loud enough so that the Plate person hears it in determining whether or not the run counts. This is one of the drawbacks in a 2 person system. The base umpire is taking the "trail runner" while the Plate umpire is watching the lead runner touch home.

The PU can position him/herself properly to get a look at the runner touching and when the out is declared by his partner but not always depending upon the play.

Also, the signal is given especially in one's early stage of development to differentiate a Force play vs. a Timimg play.

As TEE mentioned, once you get experience and are working with experienced officials this is not a big deal and no real need for hand signals.

Pete Booth