Quote:
Originally Posted by MikeStrybel
I don't have a problem throwing a ball back to the pitcher if the need arises, typically on a ball that squirts away on the side opposite the on deck batter. As the catcher goes to get it, I can put a new ball in the game. I'm still young enough to throw straight and I prefer to keep the game moving. I see plenty of the best umpires in the world throw one to the pitcher every so often. Most prefer to hand the ball to the catcher, as I do, but it's not a big deal to help the catcher out once in a while. Some actually say thanks.
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I do this too. It just depends on the situation. If the foul ball takes the catcher away from the plate or takes me up the line near the pitcher, I will throw it myself. If the ball is just fouled directly back or out of play, I will hand it to the catcher and let him throw it to the pitcher.
As for baseballs being returned to the PU, the only thing I really don't like is when high school coaches throw the ball at my feet between innings. Most will bring the ball by between innings or give it to their catcher, but a few try to long-hop it to me, and I hate it. If it is during the inning, most will just throw it to their catcher and he will hand it to me. If an on-deck batter chases a ball to the screen, I usually tell them to wait and bring it up when they come up to bat. College games are nice because they designate someone to bring you baseballs the entire game and you don't have to worry about getting them from on-deck batters or anyone else.