Quote:
Originally Posted by Skahtboi
Also, with no runners on, the BU should take the runner all the way to third. If I call them off in this situation, that means that they either a) fell, b) tripped and almost fell causing them to lose several steps, or c) aren't doing their job.
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Have you ever heard "If you deviate communicate"? There is nothing wrong with deviating from the mechanics. The ASA Mechanics manual even says so. Now I don't deviate much because I believe that in most situations I see no reason to. And you should have a good and logical reason for doing so. For example, I will call my partner off at Third if I have to go up the line on a ball hit to left field. Why not? I'm already there. To suggest that they are not during their job is not accurate. They may have 4 games in a row that night and the PU is trying to save the BU's legs. There's nothing wrong with taking the call at Third in this situation. However, you should pre-game it. Again, I don't deviate much, but when I do its for a good reason. Not just because I don't like the mechanic. I never deviate for that reason. In fact calling my partner off at Third is the only time I do deviate. Every other instance I follow the prescribed mechanic.