Quote:
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Originally Posted by Tim C
"If a play develops and you are compelled to clear it because the catcher can't or won't, you should remember rule number one of umpiring - don't take your eyes off of the ball! Your foot wedge is the most competent tool for this because you don't have to look down, even for an instant. While you may scuff your shoes, it is far better than being hit by a thrown ball or lose sight of the play because you want to look like a bat boy. I don't believe anyone suggested picking it up and "plunking" someone with it, but we've all had our moments. Use whatever works for you; an umpire holding a bat while the ball is live just makes him/her look like a novice though."
I couldn't possible disagree with you more.
Regards,
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Which part was that -
"...don't take your eyes off the ball!"?
"...anyone suggested picking it up and 'plunking' someone with it..."?
"...Use whatever works for you..."?
"holding a bat while the ball is live makes him/her look like a novice..."?
Which professional school taught you that it was acceptable to handle playing equipment during live ball conditions?
I was taught to watch the ball - except on foul pop ups - and use my foot to 'push' the bat out of the way. I've watched more MLB games that I can recount and cannot recall a PU holding a bat during live action. Those are the gentlemen that I consider professional role models. But as I wrote, if you feel compelled to glance away from playing action in order to do the bat boy or on deck batter's job, have fun. If you dress like a professional umpire you may want to try to perform like one. That wasn't personal, as I'm sure you are competent. They are simply words that most rookies learn at school. Good night.