New Umpire Questions

SanDiegoSteve · #21 (**permalink**) Tue Dec 20, 2005, 07:34pm

Quote:

Originally posted by PWL

Quote:

Originally posted by UMP25
I've never asked a scorekeeper or anyone else for that matter. If I want the count because I forgot it, which rarely happens I have to admit, there is a very subtle signal I use (if it can even be called a signal).

I can tell you that when I'm working the plate, my partners NEVER forget the count. From the second pitch on, I'm a plate umpire who gives the count on every pitch. I've done it for almost all of my 28-year career, and my crewmates seem to appreciate it.

I have seen maybe one other umpire do that in all the years I have been around a ballfield that I can remember. That was when I was catching one time. It about drove me nuts. If that's what your talking about. He would shout out:

BALL 1 and 0
BALL 2 and 0
Strike 2 and 1

Just imagine this being hollered in your ear all game in a loud voice. It was hard to even think back there. If you hold your hand up after every pitch, that's fine, too. I don't give the count unless I'm asked. Game moves faster. I will generally hold the count up on occasion if they have some good natured soul trying to run the scoreboard, but is having a few problems.

PWL,

I'm just asking, don't get all bent...How many years that you have "been around a ballfield" were spent umpiring, and how many as a player?

For years, the American League mechanic was to give the count after every pitch, and I have seen many that do it as well.

Personally, I usually give it at 2-1, 2-2, 0-2, 1-2, 3-0, 3-2, and whenever requested. Many fields do not have a scoreboard, but I would never rely on the scoreboard anyway, as they often display incorrect information. Players, coaches, and fans all appreciate an umpire who verbally gives the count, even if there's a scoreboard.

One more question: How does giving the count between pitches slow down the game?