Quote:
Quote:
|
Originally Posted by tibear
I was reading a 2 umpire position manual where it states that with 2 outs and runner's on base that it is acceptable for base umpire to position themselves in position B regardless of the position of the runners.
The belief is that most plays will take place at first base in this situation and being in B gives the umpire a better look at the play. It further explained that the B position gives a good angle for any plays at second and third.
Opinions??
|
|
We now have the metal bat to deal with and unfortuanely the mechanics do not differentiate between wood bat mechanics vs. metal bat mechanics.
I do not know about others but I almost "bought the farm" on a couple of shots off of a metal bat.
Therefore, the answer to your question IMO varies game to game.
Example: let's say we have 2 outs R2 only and a powerful right hand hitter at the plate who you noticed all game long has been pulling the ball. In that case I will move to the 'opposite side" of the batter's power alley meaning I would be in position "B"
Metal bats have not only changed the game for the participants but for umpires as well. I now position myself in a "deeper" B / C position than I would if I were umpiring a wood bat game.
IMO, our safety comes first and for the vast majority of umpires we do not make our living from umpiring and have families to support.
Pete Booth