[JRutledge]

If I can get kids that age to get around the plate, I am likely going to call a strike. When you say you would not give anything horizontally, I would ask why? I know I give a ball or two outside during college games, I might give a little more at a 9 year old game if for no other reason to get kids to swing at the ball. I am not saying get ridiculous, but I would not expect them to hit corners like a Major League pitcher. Even Major League Umpires give a little bit on the corners some times.

Peace