"Help" Plays

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by briancurtin

i believe i have read an "advanced mechanic" on here stating that if there is an uncaught third strike, and the batter attempts to check his swing, the BU should immediately give his call -- the one he would make if he would be appealed to -- rather than wait.

I have heard a similar mechanic as well, but I have never read or been taught that is the proper thing to do in this specific situation. That does not mean you could not do that, I just think you should not make a call in this situation without some the PU asking. I have been taught to give silent signals to indicate that we have the ball hitting the dirt or not (if the BU can see it), but those signals are not obvious to everyone and are there to allow the PU to make an "educated" call. I also think the catcher has to be smart enough to know the situation or the possible call and either tag the runner or throw/not throw the ball to first base.

Peace