Strike Zone

[JRutledge]

Originally posted by Stripes1950
This could be just be a local issue but maybe some of you around the country can help me. I tend to call a true strike zone in HS ball. I will not give the P a strike 3 inches off the plate. Some of my partners do. They seem to think it speeds the game up. I don't think that it is fair to the batter. I also call a strike at the batter's midsection (letters?) which coaches seem to think is high. Do I have to adjust? Could use some imput. By the way, I have been umpiring HS for about 20 years and the complaining has just started this year.

I call a strike zone in which I honestly think the ball crossed the strike zone. I really do not make it much more complicated than that. I know there are times when I might call a pitch or two that might be a little off the plate, but who cares. I will try to be consistent with those pitches all game long. If a batter wants to look at a pitch that is close, that is his problem. Do not give me the chance to call a strike. Swing the damn bat meat!!

Peace