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I guess I don't follow that.
If it's merely a custom, then fine. But, the call of 'Time' is a platitude. Play is already suspended by rule, just like after a foul ball. 
mick
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OK, mick, I didn't quote the entire rule, but since you ask...
RULE 10 - UMPIRES. Section 8 - SUSPENSION OF PLAY. I. (Slow Pitch Only) When, in the judgment of the umpire, all immediate play is apparently completed, the umpire should call time.
I don't get why this is a "platitude."
Calling time is how the umpire suspends play in this situation. In a foul ball, play is suspended by the call of "foul ball". In both cases the signal from the umpire is the same - arms raised, palms out. The ball doesn't kill itself. Time doesn't declare itself. The umpire calls it.
[Edited by Dakota on May 1st, 2003 at 10:29 AM]