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I honestly see no benefit for U1 to straddle. Does it really buy you that much of a better look at a checked swing? I seriously doubt it. And you could actually make it harder to see a tag on a pickoff when the runner dives to the back side of the bag, since the runner will screen your view of the tag. Most pro U1s I've seen actually set up a little bit off the line, further into foul territory.
As for U3, I can see where he may want to set up straddling or even into fair territory just slightly. I personally wouldn't do it. I can usually see around a runner at third for the check swing, and take the quick step to see the pickoff at third.
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"Let's face it. Umpiring is not an easy or happy way to make a living. In the abuse they suffer, and the pay they get for it, you see an imbalance that can only be explained by their need to stay close to a game they can't resist." -- Bob Uecker
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