[RPatrino]

At the HS Varsity level I use the concept of the "strike zone of least resistance". Is this contrary to the rule? I don't think so.

For example, you have a big sweeping 12/6 curve ball that probably crosses somewhere through the strike zone, but bounces before the catcher can touch it, and ends up at the backstop. What do you think will happen if you call that one a strike?

An outside pitch is about a ball lengths outside, and the catcher jerks it back into the zone. Same pitch, but the F2 frames it, keeps his glove still. Technically, both are balls. What do you do?

If it looks like a strike, call it a strike. Use the catcher and batter as "landmarks". Generally, if the catchers glove is pointing upward, the ball is probably not too low. If the catcher doesn't have to reach above his head to catch the ball, its probably not too high. Generally, if the ball is caught within the area defined by the catcher's knees, its not too far outside or inside.

The key is consistency, call the same pitch the same way every time during the game. The pitcher's and their coach wants to be able to be comfortable that they can get the same call in the same spot every time. The best thing you can hear is a coach tell a griping player, " He's been calling that a strike all day long, now shut up and hit the damn ball".


Bob P.