[x-tremeump]

Originally Posted by Umpteenth

If you are more concerned about what you would say to a spectator than you are about properly calling a game, perhaps it is you who should re-consider your calling to the job of officiating.

There are just too many things that could occur while the umpire is moving a bat. First off, as has been stated, once the bat is discarded/dropped, it becomes part of the playing field. If the umpire moves the bat, the umpire has then altered the playing field, and unless this can be done consistently and repeatedly, without causing any difference to the game it should be avoided. If you move the bat for one team, you must move the bat for every team. And at some point in time, you will find yourself in a situation that requires you to devote your mind, eyes, ears and body to the play before you, and not be concernced whatsoever about a bat.

Officiating requires consistency in all situations and circumstances. This consistency includes application of rules and mechanics. If you cannot provide that consistency you should find another line of work.

First, Officiating to me is not work. It is a privlage, I have been taught to Officiate in a way when the game is over I have a sence of self worth. Only being on this Forum for 10 days now I can see that there are 2 bullies on here that I really want to Umpire a game with. I love the game, & the kids. When you lose touch with reality you become hard to deal with behind a Handle on a forum.