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Originally Posted by tibear
On a botched relay, the play should be completely in front of the umpire and he should have lots of time to get from 2nd to 3rd in time to make the call. By watching the ball and runner U3 will know where the play is going to be. At worst U3 will be in the same position as when a runner on 2nd was stealing third.
The only issue you might have is if there is a rundown between 2nd and 3rd. PU and U1 will have to communicate as to who is going out to help U3 and who is covering plate.
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Sure, play will be in front of U3, as will BR for about two seconds (That whooshing sound is him blowing past as you stop, reverse & try to catch up). Now we have a foot race with U3 losing badly - better hope PU bails him out.
Use the benefits of three umpires. Let U1 pivot in & take BR to 2B when there is no play. Should U3 feel there is a potential play, verbal & hand signal to 'push off' & crew rotates.
This leaves umpires on both sides of any potential play without needless rotating or sprinting to cover a botched play.
Now I have only been doing this for 30 years and have seen mechanics come & go. Trust me, this works.
Note: Should a crew be working 3 umpire with little chance for pre-brief &/or training (IE: a single game) by all means rotate in this situation ALWAYS as it reduces the opportunity for confusion.