I think it was Ozzy who gave you the best reason why we don't remove our mask with the right hand. You don't want to end up throwing it or knocking someone in the head with it when you sell a banger.



Tim.

I have seen a few umpires remove the mask with the right hand, only to transfer it to the left hand immediately.

I also have seen some professionals use both hands to remove it as well, probably taking their time to make sure they don't rip their hats off in front of 50,000 fans.

http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/1/1_4_45.gif

i agree that you don't have it in the hand that you signal with, but if you sell bangers with the left, why not hold a mask in the right?

because you never make calls with your left hand except the left half of a safe signal, and the various times you point (not including pointing strikes).

You don't remember Ken Kaiser??? ;)

And here's one reason why you shouldn't do that, either.

I was evaluating an umpire at a 3A varsity game. R3 is trying for home on an infield hit. The play was close.

Now try to visualize this:

PU takes his mask off with his right hand, then takes it from his right hand with his left, then signals out with his right hand.

Here's what the fans and coaches saw: A signal of out with his right hand, with mask in hand, followed by a signal of safe due to the left hand coming to the center of his body and and (after transfering the mask) swinging back to his left, followed by another out call.

Can you say "Sh!t house"?

Yes, I am sure. As far as the alleged "D-1" umpire goes, either he is not a conference official or the level of D-1 officials is lacking in your area. I'd love to know what area that is.

GB
 

Bellingham, WA

"Ahhhh," he said with a knowing wink to his Portland partner.

[Edited by GarthB on Mar 18th, 2006 at 05:06 PM]