I've run across one guy (he's in his second or third year) in my area in a few different tournaments and leagues who seems to think that getting the bat is the umpire's number one priority, no matter what else is happening on the field.
A runner singles with nobody else on, he's hustling out to pick up the bat. A batter walks and he's grabbing the bat she dropped. Plays being made on the bases (not at home plate) and he's busy either picking up the bat or kicking it out of the way.
You can only hope the guy gets some good training somewhere along the line or, better yet, an evaluation. Maybe we'll get assigned a game together sometime and I can drop a hint...
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