Quote:
Originally Posted by blindofficial
As a newbie in baseball (going into my 3rd year) I get told that my strike zone is too tight. I keep getting told that if the catcher doesn't have to turn his glove, as if to scoop it, it's a strike no matter how low it is or where it's at. However, if the catcher has to "scoop" to get the ball (as if it bounced) it's a ball.
I've asked multiple umpires in the past about this and the reason behind this is to "speed up the game." I know these are Soph/JV games, but c'mon. Is that really a fair strike zone, and how is that teaching the pitcher to throw strikes?
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Usually at the soph/jv level, you will get as many cathers that don't properly catch as there are pitchers that can't throw strikes. If you enjoy being out there for hours at a time, go for it. Be consistent. Be consistent.
A good catcher will basically confirm the pitch you have seen and tracked into his mit. Most times, the perception that it looked like a strike, is because it was. Call em. Borderline pitches are just as much a strike as a ball. I choose to say the "S" word in just about all those situations.
You may believe that your teaching little Johnnie to throw strikes, but I guarentee you that little Joey is standing there in the box learning how to get on base the easiest way he knows. So if you really want to teach, make sure not to forget about the batter who wants to learn how to hit also.
I personnally believe in the three "S" words to a successful umpiring assignment:
Strike, He'
Sout and
So long coach have a good night.