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My standard pre-game spiel for checked swings (if I'm the plate umpire) is to tell my partner that I might check with him no matter what position he's in. If he honestly couldn't tell if the batter went, whether it's because of the disadvantage of his positioning or any other reason, then make like Nancy Reagan and "Just say NO" (and give a safe signal- Nancy always forgot that part).
If I'm on the bases, I tell him to feel free to come to me no matter where I'm at and I'll give him my honest evaluation of the swing. If I'm not sure or can't tell if he went, I'm not going to overrule his call.
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