Help With a Scoop at First

[David B]

Originally Posted by Peruvian

I'm the first base umpire. B1 hits a chopper to F6, who fields and throws a short hop to F3. The play is very, very close and I call him safe.

Nobody argued or anything, but I thought back to that play this morning as I was reading my mechanics manual and was wondering if anyone had any tips for making the call on this play. I couldn't find anything in print about it.

I know we listen for the pop of the glove and the smack of the foot on the bag to aid in our decision on routine plays, but I've always had trouble with this play, and I think it is the toughest call in baseball to make on the bases.

Any thoughts?

I simply watch the ball into the glove on the short hop, you have to be watching it anyway to see if he maintains possession etc.,

It takes practice but then my eyes move quickly to the bag and to see the BR's foot etc.,

Thanks
David