Quote:
Originally Posted by umpire12
good point...not interpreting their own manual's mechanics correctly weakens their argument against an alternative set of mechanics. its probable that most of the naysayers never even worked in an association that prescibes the modern mechanics. not having an on the job comparison makes their point moot
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You are not the first one to make this argument (I think this comes up about once a year), so I'll give you the quick rehash.
ASA's mechanics are not 'old', they are designed to be a easy, standard reference for the wide variety of abilities within the ranks of ASA umpiring. They were to be the first group to publish a mechanics manual. The mechanics also span multiple versions of softball, including slow pitch (16" and 12"), fast pitch and modified.
With that being said, the ASA may have an issue with changing, but that is not to say they have never changed. For example, in slow pitch 2-umpire, BU is never on the line. Likewise, the heel-toe plate stance was not the first one advocated and taught by the ASA. So you see, ASA can change when they feel the change is for the good "of their game." (I really stress that last part, maybe using "brand" in lieu of "game").
Now, you are addressing the "inside/outside" theory with what you are defining as "the modern mechanics." To be clear, I don't think any organization "prescribes" you to stay outside. NCAA (who basically first to allow) doesn't "prescribe" you stay outside; it is an OPTION. If you are referring to PONY (which I am not a member), my understanding is that staying outside is also an OPTION (my belief is the PONY manual was created from the NCAA manual). Realize that the NCAA and PONY manual focus only only on fast pitch mechanics. The NCAA manual was also created with a certain level of umpire in mind, an advanced level that would probably equate to 2% - 5% of the ASA's umpire population.
The ASA is abreast of different organizations and the options/differences in mechanics. They did a presentation of mechanic differences in 2011 (you can view the powerpoint on the ASA website). Topics included inside/outside theory, plate stances (let me guess, you use the Gerry Davis?), and coverage of first base in a three umpire system. Is that to say that I agree with
all their positions? Sometimes, the ASA and I are at odds in philosophy, but I can understand their point. Their mechanics aren't about me, 1 umpire in over 22,000. Their mechanics are for all the 22,000.
Look, we are all in this together, so my advice is to "live and let live." Work the mechanics in the organization that is on your hat/shirt/ball bag, etc (and what your UIC wants). There is value in both points of view (while there are negatives as well). And you don't want to get in a battle with Irish, he is old and stubborn enough to not give up
(not to mention that he has the best buttonhook on the Eastern Seaboard).
As for the original play, in ASA/Fed play, BU would have the tag of R1 (from inside the diamond), and if the ball is caught, take the runner into third. If the ball is dropped, PU would have the runner at third. For NCAA 2-umpire (or 3-umpire with a umpire chasing), the tag would be the remaining base umpire (inside or outside the diamond) and the throw the third would belong to PU. I'm unaware how U-trip, PONY, NSA, TCS or PGF cover this play, those are not organizations in which I am familiar.