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Originally Posted by tibear
I've seen a couple of umpires get into trouble watching coaches give signs, only to find out that there is a pickoff going on that they aren't even aware of. Everyone is looking at the BU waiting for his call and he sort of stands there with a glassy eyed look and usually a weak safe call.  |
That would be true, but only with an idiot baserunner. A baserunner takes his signs while on the base so that's really should not be too much of an issue.
I like to try and figure out the signs just for fun, especially in a low key game.
Now in a big game, I'm all eyes, watching the F1.
As far as steals, I would say experience is the key, and since I don't do "small ball" anymore, the players will help you. Either F3 or F4 or F6 will say "he's going". Then you will hear the footsteps etc.,
That allows you to keep your eyes focused on F1 for the potential balk.
Even if you were to get fooled, you are in great position to see the play at either 3rd or 2nd so its' not that huge of a problem.
Thanks
David