Like I said this is the strike zone as taught by one of the very best umpires in the game, a man who's picture is clearly displayed in the rule book. If Wild Bill says call it here, guess what? that's where I'll call it. This is the same zone taught at this years National School in Seattle and last years National School in Portland. The intent of this post was to show that while reluctant to do so at first, I have noticed a remarkable difference in the way coaches and players respond to me when I am behind the dish. Gone are the days when the coach complained about every close call. Of course I am not calling the 18" off the plate the umpire (Gregg?) did in the NLCS a few years ago.
Bugg
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