Quote:
Originally Posted by NCASAUmp
I may be mistaken, but I do believe I read in the package sent to me this year from OKC that at the Nationals, base umpires "may" mirror the plate umpire's signal for time.
At the NUS, we were instructed to only do it if circumstances require it (such as a runner still going full steam after the PU has called "time" 15 times).
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Yes, I've seen this year's letter. And the letters include "may" or "can", but it is not in the manual. I have little doubt this is because there are some areas where the older mechanics are still lingering because it's "just the way we do it."
However, I have received calls from Nationals asking me about this because this person said this or that. I'm talking about member of the NUS or a tournament asst. UIC, with shock in their voice when I say we haven't used it for more than a decade except as you not above, when necessary. Otherwise, it is just another unnecessary signal with an umpire standing still in the middle of the infield while those around him/her are moving into position to resume play.
Please note that I am not stating the signal should scrapped. It is necessary at times when there are still players active or looking for an indication the play is done as Dave cited from the school.