Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA
You are assuming that I haven't used other mechanics. You would be incorrect. Been there, done that, even at an ASA Major NC at the direction of the UIC.
From your post, it seems you haven't been kept up to date or just haven't read the umpire manual lately. Then again, I'm less than impressed with how it has been homogenized. But that is why there are schools and clinics, to take the training the next step, from text to practice. ASA doesn't tell you to go to 45 degrees. And the 18-21 set up is just as much to keep umpires from going too deep. I have often had to get umpires to get closer. I don't care if they get closer as long as the umpire is not in a position which may deter F3 from making a play on a batter ball. Remember, ASA gives you starting points. If you walk the line, that 18-21 should be closer to 13-15 on the step into the field.
AFA as rimming the infield, it is "easier", doesn't mean it is better. It is also situational that is very successful with non-aggressive play. But if you have an aggressive team, U1 is going to spend a good portion of his/her game sprinting across the infield to catch up with a play. I've rarely have had a problem getting inside. Those who do are often the umpire who sets up way too deep or has never stopped being a spectator. If I had my druthers, I'd rather be inside and relax to see the plays and easily adjust to any subsequent play. IMO, the false hustle happens between the plays. That is when I will take my breather, yet still be in position to start the next play. And if you are talking FP, it is even easier. That is a small field, real small field that any umpire should easily be able to navigate. Try working Men's Major on an 80' field. Do that and you will feel like you are walking when you get back to covering the little field.
Are there times when runners or fielders change direction and cut you off? Sure, and that is going to happen no matter which mechanic set you prefer or are working. But a good umpire does what they do every other time the players don't cooperate, adjust. And if that adjustment means I stay outside, and that is rarer than my wife's steak preference, I adjust to get the best look I can from where I am just as any umpire would do no matter what system was being used.
And, BTW, I also teach that people should not confuse running with hustle. I can get where I need to be quite often with an easy lope, if that. BTW, if you are only 12' from 1B, how can it take you so long to get inside, its only 3-4 steps? I button hook all the time and do not miss the runner touching the base and am in a good position to see a throwback. And my knees are terrible, so a healthy individual should be able to perform this easily.
I will admit, it is just as much about timing and ability to read the play, and that comes from experience
|