Calling strikes from a knee

[mattmets]

For smaller games (LL, Ripken, etc) I use the knee. Only problem is my knees get filthy and torn up easily. Occasionally I use it in Babe Ruth games....if you don't get lazy, it's not that bad getting up to be in position in a 2-man.

In regards to the shades behind the plate, I do it for any game that starts before 6 PM. I haven't had any problems other than wiping sweat off my brow. Plus, it allows me to look into the dugout if I hear anything funny without anyone knowing and responding.

[ctblu40]

I used the "one knee" stance when I first started out. As I moved up and started doing higher level games, I switched to the box stance. My reason was simply self preservation. Too many bruised thighs to continue the 1-knee.

As for glasses, I use them when needed. Sunny, clear sky days. One tip I would offer is, if you're wearing them and you need to discuss something with a manager, remove them for the conversation.

[nickrego]

Originally Posted by ctblu40

As for glasses, I use them when needed. Sunny, clear sky days. One tip I would offer is, if you're wearing them and you need to discuss something with a manager, remove them for the conversation.

Why ? They don't take them off to talk to us. And I don't see a problem with either person leaving sunglasses on. I do take my helmet off though.

[ctblu40]

Originally Posted by nickrego

Why ? They don't take them off to talk to us. And I don't see a problem with either person leaving sunglasses on. I do take my helmet off though.

IMO, you should remove the glasses for 2 reasons:
1) Let the coach see your eyes so that he know's he has your undivided attention when he's talking to you.
2) Let the coach see your eyes when you're starting to get pi$$ed so that he can read your non-verbal communication.

[LilLeaguer]

Originally Posted by ctblu40

IMO, you should remove the glasses for 2 reasons:
1) Let the coach see your eyes so that he know's he has your undivided attention when he's talking to you.
2) Let the coach see your eyes when you're starting to get pi$$ed so that he can read your non-verbal communication.

I wear prescription glasses and sunglasses. If I removed my sunglasses to talk to a coach, he'd read my non-verbal communication that he's blurry and indistinct. I suppose I should look for the appropriate occasion.

Coach: But the hands are part of the bat.
LL (removing sunglasses): Are you sure of that?

Even though both glasses have the same prescription, changing them gives me a moment of awkward vision (due to the different fit, I think), so I try to stay with the same pair for the whole game. Behind the plate, I tend to wear them less than I do in the field, but we have a couple of local fields were PU faces the setting sun.

[spots101]

Originally Posted by GarthB

the perceptioncan be one of laziness.

What if an ump tells a coach that he's not able to see the whole foot on the dish or out of the box after a bunt?? Does the same perception apply here too??

[GarthB]

(Yawn....)

[briancurtin]

Originally Posted by nickrego

Why ? They don't take them off to talk to us. And I don't see a problem with either person leaving sunglasses on. I do take my helmet off though.

ive always been told to take my sunglasses off when addressing coaches/players, especially at the plate conference.

[LLPA13UmpDan]

I never wear sunglasses. I hate them. Thats what a hat brim and a mask sunshield are for. They obstruct my view.

[briancurtin]

the last two weekends i have worn sunglasses for every game i umpired, on the plate or bases. no obstruction for me.

[briancurtin]

also, mask sunshields are worthless when you are wearing a hat...

[BBUMP99]

Originally Posted by ctblu40

One tip I would offer is, if you're wearing them and you need to discuss something with a manager, remove them for the conversation.

Tony LaRussa does...every time he comes out, the glasses go off...just for the record...

[mrm21711]

Originally Posted by mattmets

Plus, it allows me to look into the dugout if I hear anything funny without anyone knowing and responding.

What? They cant see you turning your head?

[mattmets]

Originally Posted by mrm21711

What? They cant see you turning your head?

Not if I cock my head like I'm looking past them into the stands, parking lot, etc.

[LMan]

Originally Posted by mattmets

Not if I cock my head like I'm looking past them into the stands, parking lot, etc.