I'm at the fields 1 hour prior. I use that time to polish the shoes, get mentally ready by blasting some loud music over the car stereo, and get dressed. I am on the field 20-25 minutes prior. That gives me approximately:
- 4-5 minutes to do bat and helmet inspection for the visitors
- 4-5 minutes to do bat and helmet inspection for the home
- 4-5 minutes to observe the home team infield
- 4-5 minutes to observe the visitor team infield
- 4-5 minutes for pre-game plate meeting.
Any extra time, and we get the game going a few minutes early.
My partner and I go on the field together. Always.
If my partner isn't at the field at 30 minutes prior to game time, they get a phone call. If they're not there within 15 minutes of game time, I go on the field alone. That's the only reason I would go on solo, tho.