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Originally Posted by VanStanza
Hi Guys:
As an umpire of 15 years, I feel I am a strong official interms of mechanics, judgement, etc., with a very good plate game. I do not feel my base game is as good, and so I'm looking for some advice regarding taking plays at 1st base.
Assume no runners and a ground ball to the infield. As the BU sets up at an ideal 90-degree angle to the throw, and the throw is coming across the infield, tell me as exactly as you can, what you do next...
I ask this VERY basic question because I think I am victim to calling runners out at 1st (who may be safe by a quarter-step).
I need help!
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Number one sounds like you are doubting yourself way too much - the comment about runners who may be safe.
As to what I do, I watch the ball (throw) as it comes to the glove. Its a timing thing but as the ball gets to the glove, my eyes move quickly to the base which allows me to see the runners foot (assuming its a close play)
Then he's either out or safe.
If I had to guess, you are probably also not getting the right angle for the throws to first. Sometimes the best angle is not 90 degrees. Examples would be throws by F4 or by F2 on a bunt etc.,
Best of luck and finally the biggest mistake that I see by umpires at first is not calling the runner out on a close play.
Thanks
David
GoorwThrows or.