stance adjustment

[nickrego]

I tried the pointing to the side, without looking to the side, but I found it very uncomfortable. It just felt funny.

I agree with you that you need to do what your assignor's require, unless you are not concerned about moving up (many umpires aren't).

[DG]

Yep, as mentioned by several, he has introduced you to GD stance. Learn it and use it and you will call better games and not be as tired at the end.

I'm a hammer guy, I don't point. That's the way I was taught when I first went to school and I believe how they still teach it. Swinging or looking does not matter to me, although I am sure I am more casual with the hammer (ie small hammer) on a swinging strike. My called third strike is different as it is for most folks.

What do I think about the changes? It doesn't matter what you or I think. If this guy has a lot to say about who works college games and you want to work college games you will change, per his suggestions.

[Justme]

Originally Posted by nickrego

I tried the pointing to the side, without looking to the side, but I found it very uncomfortable. It just felt funny.

I agree with you that you need to do what your assignor's require, unless you are not concerned about moving up (many umpires aren't).

When working 2-man I point to the side while looking forward. It does feel strange at first but I got used to it. I would hate to be giving the crowd my best strike mechanic and learn that I had missed a play because I took my eyes off the ball. Now get me in a 3 or 4-man game and I can "strike mechanic" with the best of them