Play at First

[Michael J. Strybel]

JJ, it's good to see another clinician on this board. I agree that it would be great with three good umpires all of the time, we just need to get them used to working that system. This one got me curious enough to actually ask a question, I hope I do this right.

If you assume the original play - R1 and the BU @ B - batter hits a knuckler down the first baseline with F3 picking it up and flipping to F1 for the put out.

If I'm the PU, my first concern is Fair/Foul and a swipe tag prior to the 45ft line. After that I will tuck toward the front of the mound for R1 possibly avancing to third. While I'm moving, though, I am watching for a swipe tag and a foot at first. Why? Because the first thing we teach our umpires is to watch the ball, follow the play and let the ball take you to the next play.

I'm sure that you do this, too when working 2-man. It is a mechanic that a lot of veterans will do almost subconsciously. I'm not trying to do my partner's job, I'm just following the ball. My head is usually on a swivel when I work.

Good to see your name again. I'll see you at the December meeting!