Play at First

[Rich]

Originally posted by orioles35
I agree. In pregame conference, I will always make sure the PU will be watching the pulled foot at 1st. If I get straight-lined by the 1st baseman where there's a chance his foot may have come off the bag, I will point to the PU for his call on the foot, then I make my call. Had one this weekend, heard some grumbling, but it was the right call.

You say "get straight-lined" as if it is a fact of life. It isn't. Get the right ANGLE and you will see the foot.

I've asked for help at first once in about 15 years. It was on a 3-1 play where F4 ran right in front of me at the time the ball arrived. I saw my partner out of the corner of my eye.

But I've had too many partners ask my help and then I recognize that the umpire is in the SAME SPOT as when the ball was hit. Too many people substitute help for "WORKING the bases." It is work and you do have to fight to get the best position.