Well, the string has been broken. Mid-Atlantic final Monday night - OMG, Smitty is back! Or should I say Smittly and his family?
1/2 kneeling/semi-sideways stance. Sometimes in the slot, often OUTSIDE, often right behind F2 (He only did that when F2 stood up so he could hide I guess). Never once went up 1B line for coverage. Zip presence - couldn't hear his strike call even with the mike. Never quite sure what all the hand waving meant. Hard to get fresh baseballs out of that gray bag with mask & indicator in right hand. About as crisp as an overdone noodle.
U1 - All calls from 1/4 step fair 20' up the line.
U2 - When he bounced in the ground shook. He did hustle every play.
U3 - Had a clue. stayed out of the infield except when needed. Was in position for every call, including when R2 missed 3B. (3B coach didn't argue either).
LFU - No calls observed
RFU - Two plays I saw he hustled to get into position, set and made his call.
Don't get me wrong - I have done my share of LL games.
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