Notice he said the choice was between rule knowledge and mechanics.
Mechanics is not the same as rule application.
Mechanics is being in position, rotating to cover as the play develops, signals, verbalization, proper timing, etc., etc.
All essential to good umpiring.
If I had to choose between a partner who knew the rules AND how to apply them, but was basically a mechanics klutz, or a guy who hadn't cracked a book in 20 years because nothing ever changed but knew his business on mechanics, I'd...
Put the rules guy behind the plate, and
Put the mechanics guy on the bases!
Adapt and survive!
__________________
Tom
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