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Mcrowder,
I went back and read all of the posts. I can't see anyone other than you that has used this mechanic.
As I said, I HAVE used the mechanic. I went back and read my notes. I used the mechanic in 6 JV Double Headers and two Varsity games(I had forgotten, about the Varsity games) and in a handful of U14, U16 and U18 games.
To further address Mr. Mafia's points, from my personal experience:
1) I never got "turned around" on a ball up the middle. Maybe I am not understanding what he meant by this, but I cannot remember any circumstances where this happened. Maybe it could be explained more clearly and I might better understand this one.
2) Ending up in the middle of a play. I can see how this could happen but, it may not have to be a problem. If the infield is in, you could stay behind them, if they are back, you could be closer to second base than the circle. I am not certain that this would solve the problem. I think it could work. I did not find myself in the middle of any plays.
3) How often have any of us been hit by a batted ball in baseball? It has not ever happened to me in 12+ years-I have ahd a few close calls. On a regular baseball diamond, the BU is usually approx 70 ft away? If you employed this mechanic, you could be about the same distance away-if not even farther. Do I remember Geometry Class? the diaganol of a square is the Square Root of 2 x one side...Almost 85 feet from home plate to second base. Why would this be a problem?
4) His last point: "not being in a position to go out on a possible catch/no catch scenario" Is there a mechanic that sends you "out" with a runner on base? Am I missing something here? I think your position for seeing catch/no catch would be at least as good, if not better.
Joe In Michigan
PS I talked to Referee Magazine today, the guy said he thought he could get the article to me. Also, he said that they are finally working on putting archives on their web page!
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