Quote:
Originally posted by Jay R
I had a close play at home not long ago where I did not get a good view of the tag, if there was one. I was first base line extended behind the catcher who basically blocked my view of the tag. I noticed that MLB umpires go third base line extended, I presume to get a better angle. Any of you use 3B line extended in a two-man crew?
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I think Peter gives some sound advice on adjusting positioning depending upon the scenario. Bases loaded and a hit to the infield in is probably going to be a blocked plate thing and the 1B line extended might be better. I generally like to use the 3B line extended because 3 out of 5 plays at the plate are swipe tags and this gives a better look at whether the catcher contacts the runner with his glove. One problem we can all have at times is the mistake of getting TOO CLOSE to the call and having the play explode on us. Don't give up angle for closeness. Some MLB guys seem to make some of these calls on the move but I would caution against this for most umpires and that probably includes me as well.Jim/NYC