Quote:
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"The foul tip mechanic is not a useless mechanic. It should be used as a communication mechanic between umpires."
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Mid:
I respect your opinion.
I feel it is useless. I do not consider it "communication between umpires" as I feel it is primarily a signal used by the PU to note certain specific things.
That is why, in my opinion, I feel it is useless EXCEPT when it is an advantage too me.
I give the signal ONLY when the foul tip helps me with my job. The two most common times are on the checked/unchecked swing and when a hitter attempts to pull the bat back on a bunt attempt (I would also use it, obviously, if the batter was trying to evade a pitch and the ball tipped the bat).
I would NEVER give the foul tip signal when the batter takes a full fledged swing at a ball and "happens" to tip the ball. I simply give a "strike" signal.
From my view (as a base umpire) I can't really remember anytime I really even cared if a ball was signaled a foul tip or not. Maybe it has happen but I just don't remember it.
Of course my experience is limited and I haven't worked every game ever played.
Sometimes it just seems that way.
Regards,