Turning your head calling strike

[Rich]

Originally posted by scottk_61
Oh my ........

Carl and I have agreed again.

Hmm are the planets out of line or what?

It isn't often we agree on some things but I do have to bow to Carl for his rule knowledge.

There is probably none better

Umpire mechanics are taught to the lowest common denominator. I will agree that there are umpires out there, especially the newer umpires, that cannot call a strike out to the side without losing what's going on in from of them. Of course, in umpire school, all umpires are required to use the same hammer mechanic. And once they hit the minor leagues, they are allowed to add some individuality.

With proper timing, though, the ball is almost being returned to the pitcher before the signal is made. Why is it such an issue?

If turning to the side is such an issue, the umpire should be slowing down his timing -- he has far bigger problems than turning to the side.

But my umpiring mechanics shouldn't be dictated by those umpires who can't chew gum and walk at the same time.

And why would a plate umpire worry about banging someone out, Scott? Real baseball is not played with one umpire.

--Rich