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Originally Posted by Dakota
I know single umpire mechanics has a lot of limitations, especially with pick off throws to the bases. Here is what I did. Anyone have any suggestions on what I did wrong, or what I could have done better?
R1 on 3rd. Passed ball goes out on the third base side of home. Expecting the runner, and wanting to stay out of the way of the play from F2, I exit right and position myself with as near a 90 degree angle as I can - basically 3rd base line extended. R1 has started to come home, changes her mind and attempt to return to 3rd. I'm blocked up the base line by F1 covering home. I move up the 1st base line to try to get an angle, but am completely blocked by F5 standing in the infield. F6 comes over for the play, and it certainly appears to me that she got there in time to take the throw and make a tag on the diving R1. But, I could see nothing, so I called SAFE. D coach was displeased, but understood that I was blocked.
If I had exited left (as normal) I could have seen the play at 3rd but would have been in the way of a possible play at home.
Any suggestions / corrections?
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Maybe softball solo mechanics are different than baseball but here's my take on things.
You should have moved to the 3B side. Watch F2 and locate the ball (F2 will take you to the ball). Position yourself so that you aren't in the way, it may take some hussle but that's what you should be doing. Maybe you have to move deeper toward the fence, or maybe move up the line some (or a combo of things). As you see the play developing you've got to be moving into position. Don't just stand around, go with the play (the ball).
Note: If, in your position at 3B extended, you said that you were blocked by F1, then F1 would have probably blocked your view of a tag at home too, unless it was a swipe tag.
You called it correctly considering you didn't see the play.
The coaches in your area must be nicer than around here because they would never settle for "Sorry coach, I was blocked" because as an umpire you are expected to 'not be blocked' and to be able to see the play.