[nickrego]

SanDiegoSteve

I think you are correct that the pick play at 3rd is not exactly the same as at 1st.

The play at 3rd is easily made from B or C, because the runner is moving perpendicular to the umpire, so he does not block the action.

Whereas, a pick play at 1st, we need to be able to look more downward on the play to see everything, because the runner is somewhat between us and the low tag. Being closer makes it much easier.

I have called these plays from both positions, and I feel much more comfortable making them using the positioning I posted.