[Coachtindell]

You are the one who hasn't answered the question and the arguements used are not logical. There has been an arguement in baseball for several years now regarding the strike zone and that the tightening of it is contributing to the increase in homeruns.

It is umpires who have set the standard and continue to do so. I don't spend all my time focusing on this issue. I actually find it an interesting arguement and is why I discuss it in here.

If I honestly thought saying or argueing it during a game would make a difference I would, but I don't so unless it gets obsene, such as an umpire calling a really small zone against 10 year olds, then I usually leave it alone.

A tight strike zone takes the advantage away from the pitcher and benefits hitters, an enlarged strike zone does just the opposite. By calling it either way you are helping one or the other.

I argue that you should call it by the rules, regardless of the level and force the player to do the work.

This is sort of like lowering acedemic standards so everyone can get an A. As a coach, I'm not asking you to make it larger or smaller. Only call it by the book.

If my pitcher can't get it in the "real" strike zone and the batter wants to stand with the bat on her shoulder then let her walk.

She's not asking for charity!


No one has answered my question that I have asked all along, and there is really no need to move on until you do.

What gives any umpire the right to call a strike zone or any other rule of judgement different than the rule book?

Isn't that why we have a rule book? Otherwise why don't we let you make up the rules to even the field for both teams anytime you want.

So far many of you have admitted you break the rules, and have given reasons why you do it, but you haven't stated what gives you the right. Although I assume your answer has been given. That answer is you can do it because you are the Umpire!


Sort of like Clinton saying I can break the rules because I am President! ????????


[Edited by Coachtindell on Jul 5th, 2003 at 11:17 AM]