Quote:
Originally posted by Big Kahuna
Here's the play. I am on the plate, runner on second, bunt down the first base line. Pitcher charges and gets the ball in fair territory and makes the play to first. While this is going on, the runner from second, while rounding third misses the base by about 8 feet and scores. I see this happen. Defensive team comes out to appeal the runner missing third. Only problem is they go straight to the base umpire and he immediatly makes a safe signal without even looking at me. Everybody in the park, including me knows she missed the bag. Defensive coach leaves the field muttering under his breath, and since noone asked me, we play on. Should I have said something to the base umpire? This was a set play for the offense, and the only reason I knew to look for it is because I have seen it used in a baseball game. Offensive coach was surprised to find out in between innings that I had seen it, apparently they do it all the time and I am the first umpire who actually "caught" him at it.
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Speaking ASA
Who granted time for the coach? It should have been you. Since you saw the play, you probably knew what was coming.
With that knowledge, it might have been prudent to suspend play and follow up with, "What can I do for you, Coach?"
I know, hindsight being 20-20 makes posting that a bit easier, but sometimes umpires need to assert themselves.
Your partner screwed up, big time. However, the book (10.6.B) specifically states that you should not attempt to overturn your partner's decision unless asked. If your partner had half a brain, s/he would have looked to you before doing anything especially taking a call from you. Of course, the coach isn't too smart here, either. S/he probably should have asked your partner to check with you.