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Originally Posted by mcrowder
Count me as agreeing with this change.
Yes, there are more calls at 1st than at 2nd, but the degree to which my ability to make the call at 1st diminishes when changing to C from B is small, while the degree to which my ability to make the call at 2nd increases when making this change is well worth it.
The last coach that questioned my mechanics got to watch the rest of my mechanics from the parking lot. So I really don't much care how an individual coach may feel about whether I'm in B or C. No dog-wagging here.
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Many umpires that have made this move are the same ones that can't run fast enough to get into position for the call. I'm certain that I'm old enough to be your father, but I learned game management a long time ago. Anticipating plays and being prepared for them is part of any good umpire's routine.
Your last paragraph just strikes me as arrogant and sad. If you work a college schedule, you would certainly care what a coach thinks about your mechanics and attitude. SInce they have a say in your evaluation, you'd better believe that their opinions count. Unorthodox mechanics may suit your game, but that doesn't mean that you are correct.
I'll echo Bob's sentiments, the angle is almost the same, but the distance is greater. The swipe tag at first is far more crucial than the banger at second. If the kid is out going back to first, he'll never have a chance to show his speed. Even the pro school robots know that they should work the deep "B" for runners on first. Those guys are quick and aware.
Tossing coaches for questioning such unique positioning shows lack of confidence and smacks of being an OOO.