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First off, I'm not advocating this mechanic, nor am I solidly dismissing it.
During our preseason field mechanics meeting in the spring of this year a new optional mechanic was discussed by our mechanics instructors. These instructors are in contact with several minor league umpires (few of which instruct at some east coast mini-camps) and have discussed this mechanic - so you don't think the local umps are pulling this mechanic out of their arse. I would say at least 3/4 of the organization has attended mini-camps, at least one umpire has gone to pro school, a third umpire college ball and 3 or 4 have umpired Minor League AA (fill-in basis for local team). These guys are fairly sharp and I've learned a lot from them.
A little background. This organization works a "box" behind the pitcher with runner(s) on, opting for angles and being set on plays versus being closer to a play. For example, my previous organization had us "drifting" toward the bag where the play is being made. Now we (typically) move towards the mound, turn with the play, set and call it (and pivot, set and call it if there is a second play).
Until this year, the approved mechanic was for the PU to take R1 into 3B. The instuctors proposed an option mechanic for the BU to take the 2nd play on R1 going into 3B. The justification for the optional change was that the BU is in the "box" and able to pivot with the play, is already (capable of) making multiple calls and if the ball gets by 3B, the PU is at the plate for the play.
Ironically, or so I thought, not one of the umpires I worked with this year opted to use this mechanic. Neither did I.
So long as the umpires know what their coverages are, I don't see a huge issue. I remember some "more experienced" umpires looked down on the BU working in the "B" with a runner on 3B and 2 outs when I started out because, "that's not how they were taught" - now it's almost routine to see.
So what's your thoughts...
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