[SAump]

I have repeatedly asked for someone to describe the "clincally" accepted strike mechanic. No one on this thread had even offered a suggestion. I'm sure they don't want to face the onslaught of criticism from the peanut gallery. But I did find some interesting stuff in the following thread.

PRESEASON JITTERS – NEED HELP (Pages: 1 2 3 ) PAT THE REF

In SUMMARY: There were many different nuances to choose from. Each individual has one or more preferences. Nobody has put a definitive mechanic up and a democratic choice among baseball umpires prevails.

Right-hand Pointers, Repeated
10) To signal STRIKE --> To EACH HIS OWN
I also recommend that you turn with your POINTER when the bases are empty if you expect to hit your TARGET.

I would like to add one mechanic I saw on TV last summer between TEAM USA vs. JAPAN series in Norman, OK. The umpire(s) would signal a strike with a high open-hand CHOP and close the hand into a fist. It was consistent from game to game. I am sure my short description does not do it JUSTICE.

I also saw that TEAM USA's pitcher, A TX product, wore matching white sleeves below the TEAM USA jersey. NO one said anything about it at the time. There were several close plays made at the plate and TEAM USA lost the game. NO one commented on the professional rules allowing the catcher to block of the plate away from the baserunners either. None of Japan's baserunners took an open shot at the catcher. Each of them took their chance running around the much taller catcher.