[CecilOne]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

It is an NCAA mechanic based on the three umpires system (the NCAA manual standard). When B walks with no runners on, U1 doesn't have 2nd base responsibility, U3 does (same as base hit when B becomes a BR). And BR can legally and safely overrun 1st, but is in jeopardy if she turns toward 2nd. Where is that next likely play? 90 to the base on the edge facing 2nd, and that is the proper positioning for the next likely play. Only after BR (now R) stops and this play ends should U1 take the position for the next play.

With R1 on 2nd, and U3 in B, U1 should still hold until all play has ended; standard rotaion has PU covering 3rd, U3 holding at 2nd, U1 holding at 1st with possible rotation to cover home.

With R1 on 3rd, U1 DOES have BR to 2nd, and must be prepared for that play. Then, and only then, is U1 to consider moving further off the line to prepare for that possible (1st and 3rd) play.

In the two umpire system, BU always has BR to 2nd; and should react accordingly,same as R1 on 3rd in 3 umpire system. Staying fully on the line in the two umpires system doesn't follow the NCAA guideline to prepare for the next possible play until each play has ended. It can only stem from those confusing 3 umpire mechanics with 2 umpire mechanics.

So, the only time U1 should stay at the line for a BB/HBP etc. is in 3 umpire mechanics.