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IRISHMAFIA
However, we are talking about a play with a runner on 3B. That is the priority for the PU.
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Absolutely correct by the book, however I also address this in my pre-game. As a plate umpire in this case (runner at third, play is on the runner back into third) I like my base umpire to take that call because:
1 - s/he is in position to (nearly) get a 90 degree angle
2 - s/he is certainly closer to the play than I will be
Again, here we have a play on the line and the tag may be applied to the foul side of the line and I may still have the best look/angle, but I will give first priority to my partner (runner moving away from me) and only step in when necessary. This also allows me to be in a better position if the runner advances to the plate as I don't have to retreat to my position (even just a couple of steps) while watching for obstruction (runner deviates) and the developing play which may very well bring me to third base extended because the ball is coming from the right side and the runner will most likely slide away from the ball.
Quote:
IRISHMAFIA
As the PU, once the BR steps away from the plate area, I'm moving to a holding zone just north of the RH batter's box watching the play develop up the 1B line while preparing to move one way or the other depending on the runner's action and fielder's reaction.
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Naturally, the play will dictate your immediate position, but when the first play is clearly at first (and in this case the first baseman is waiting for the batter-runner to tag her/him), I don't like to move too far from the first base extended because of your sweep tag/pulled foot/out of baseline responsibilities and because I have help at third with a runner returning to the bag. By staying closer to the first base extended postition, you give a stronger perception that you are able to make a proper call on a play on the line and you don't give up anything on positioning for a play at the plate.
Basically, I don't see any need to go up the line at all in these cases. My only responsibility to the runner at third (as agreed in the pre-game) will be when they come to the plate so moving away from the plate serves no purpose.
In a similar scenario, I may cheat a little more up the line, as you describe, with a runner on second only who may have a play made on them coming into third where I have the natural 90 and it is only a matter of getting up the line as soon as the play brings me there (first throw or after force at first). But again, once the runner rounds third, I give that responsibility to my base umpire who, if moving properly, will be near the 2nd-3rd baseline for a (possible) call at first and can turn and follow the play and be in position in only a few steps. JMO
I think we are to the point of splitting hairs on positions while the general mechanics are agreed upon. As it relates to the original question, I think the concensus is that the point at which the base umpire takes priority from the plate umpire on the batter-runner being tagged between home and first is best determined by the crew in the pre-game and may vary anywhere from a few feet from home to the start of the three foot lane.