As my partner and I approached the field(from the outfield) for a girls HS Softball game...my partner (base ump) noticed that a sprinkler "spout" in shallow left field had caused a rather large "divot" around it...We spoke to the home coach and before the game began we were able to pack some dirt into the divot making it level with the rest of the playing field.
My question is...what if we DID NOT see the divot since at most venues umpires do not enter from the outfield. If the home coach had said nothing about it...and we began the game and then someone twisted an ankle...would WE have been responsible??? I realize that when there are OBVIOUS safety concerns the umpires have the responsibility to address and correct but how much "detective" work should we have to do during pre-game???
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Respectfully submitted,
Dougie
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