Quote:
Originally Posted by MD Longhorn
You had me until this last statement. I can't see what play will have the ball coming over the shoulder - remember, I was saying you should be between B and 2nd base. The ball's in left field.
And regarding BR going to third, keep in mind, I'm not advocating growing roots and standing outside motionless. Remember, we're talking about a fly to left near the line. The play of BR to third is highly unlikely, and if it does develop, we have had plenty of time to adjust. Assuming PU came up the line as we agreed he should, he's likely got R2 at 3rd. I'm behind R2, but significantly ahead of BR. Once BR passes me, and assuming no play at 2nd, I'm already moving behind her further inside - and am now likely exactly where you advocate starting on this play.
I see no disadvantage in any possible play being outside on this play, and you have the large advantage of the very best look at the catch in LF and the runner on 2nd - coupled with a decent vantagepoint for actions at or around 1st base. Whereas starting inside you have an inferior view of the catch and 2nd base at the same time, and nearly NO view of actions at first base.
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There comes a time when the players are faster than you. Maybe not "straight line" speed, but speed around the bases. You have to move efficiently to get the best angle/distance. And work in priority.
If you are outside (and once again, NO softball organization designates locations on the field as A, B, C, D, E, F, G, etc.) between 1st and 2nd, and the BR busts for a triple, and you let her pass, you will be behind the play, and straight line the tag. It isn't a very efficient movement. Maybe the standard mechanic was develop with efficiency in mind?
The way to cover this play is as stated. There are more advantages inside than outside. And trust me, I'm a big advocate of staying outside (there are time as U1 in and NCAA 3-umpire where I'm never inside). Regardless, it is the standard mechanic for ASA/NFHS games. If you believe something else is better, lobby to change the manual; freelancing is not an option. When I instruct at clinics (multiple levels under multiple codes), I'm constantly referring to mechanics manuals. If this OP happened in a college game, my decisions may be different (but for this play, most likely not, reading more of what the BR is doing). But the OP referenced ASA; this is the ASA answer (as well as Fed).