Quote:
Originally Posted by MNBlue
What is the advantage of being that close and/or putting your hands on the catcher?
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Obviously the advantage is what has worked for him, in the +-10 yrs as a MLB Umpire. Although I would never subscribe to a stance like that, it is the thing that makes him comfortable behind the plate and enables him to do a good job with his strike zone.
I used to have a much lower crouch before my knees started to go bad and then I had to adjust. I used to feel that if I was looking at about the same height as the catcher was I had the best view. After two surgeries and a renewed stance, (Gerry Davis) I think I have have a better view and bigger zone.
Now as far as putting your hands on the catcher, I never liked it when I caught and would never do it to another catcher. A few times I asked the umpire not to do it because it bothered me and they always respected my wishes.