[RPatrino]

Catch or no catch, we will never definitively know. So be it.

What is the proper mechanic? About 2 years ago I switched from the "hammer" strike call to the "sideways point (eyes looking forward, of course) for swinging strikes. If it was a half swing, that is accompanied by a "he went" with a point at the batter. Now, if the batter swings, and the strike is caught, I combine my "sideways point" (eyes looking forward, of course)with a mild "out" hammer. I do not verbalize strike three. Now,if the players act confused,they don't realize the ball was caught, and they start to act "hinky" I will verbalize, "batter is out".

If the third strike is not caught, then I just do my "sideways point" (eyes looking forward, of course), with no mild "out" hammer.

Hope this made sense. (Papa C. don't edit this!!)

Bob P.