[nickrego]

This year our association has adopted the newer mechanic of all umpires watching a fly ball hit into the outfield.

I think this is a bad mechanic, and don't like it one bit.

The point of having multiple umpires is not to have multiple sets of eyes on the same thing, but to have multiple sets of eyes on MORE things.

Example: No runners, ball hit into left field, the field umpire needs to be watching the runner for any interference, obstruction, or turn at 1st base, and to make sure he touches 1st base. The plate umpire needs to be watching and calling the ball. Now, both umpires are watching the ball, and sometimes calling the out. Very bad.