Calling the Plate, where do you set up?

[PeteBooth]

I see Major League Umpires use all different sort of techniques, some, which to my untrained eye, look like they are setting up behind the catcher and making calls from there.

I am really looking for some guidance and opinion here?

In the Major leagues, there are 4 umpires, meaning they have maximum coverage. Most of the ball we call utilizes the 2 person mechanics, meaning the PU cannot stay stationary behind home plate.

Therefore, in addition to finding a stance for better Strike / Ball consistency we also need a stance that allows us to get out from behind the plate in a relatively easy and quick manner.

The "slot" position is best suited for this, meaning we can see either corner and also can get out from behind the plate rather quickly.

The other stances which are taught but not utilized that much are one of TEE'S (sorry TEE couldn't resist) favorite stances, the scissors and the other stance is getting down on one knee which you see some major league umpires utilize.

My recommendation would be to try all 3 stances to see which one you are most comfortable with, keeping in mind that you are going to have to move. IMO you cannot go wrong using the "Slot" stance because it allows you to call a more consistent game plus allows you to move quickly from behind the plate which is a MUST in a 2 person system.

Pete Booth