[EsqUmp]

Working the "slot" is great but not as great as self preservation.

If you want to remain in the slot and not get your hands beaten up, try this (imagine a right handed batter). Your left leg should be at least as wide from the plate as the batters. Drop to your normal position, but move your left hand just behind your left knee. Your right leg should be behind the catcher's back. Place your right hand on top of your thigh just above your knee. Your thumb will be inside your thigh and the rest of your fingers will wrap around to the outside of your thigh. Depending on your preference, you can lock your right arm in this position.



Doing this helps umpires maintain their balance, without that awkward feeling of having both arms behind the body, which leads to all sorts of bad mechanics for many umpires.


By tucking one hand away behind your knee and having the other blocked by the catcher's back (regardless of whether she can field a ball), you'll be in much better shape.