More 1959 mechanics
 

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http://123pichosting.com/images/2856Bat_1a.jpghttp://123pichosting.com/images/6465Bat_2a.jpghttp://123pichosting.com/images/8693Bat_3a.jpg

Well, they did not have internet forums full of a bunch of wannabe MLB umpires criticizing their lousy mechanics back in 1959. It was a much simpler time.:D

Looks pretty oldschool but still good.

Maybe I am old school . Looks to me that ump is moving bat out of way of incoming runner. I do that all the time when working plate. Safety issue.

I would submit that the reason the old time umpires left their masks on when clearing the bat is because of the raft. One hand holding the raft, the other grabbing the bat. I prefer the "foot wedge" to clear the bat with whenever possible.

Steve, everytime I use the foot wedge I miss the bat. I prefer the "between the legs, hike the bat along the ground like a fumbled football long snap". I think we should always try to remove the bat if we have the time.

You need to keep your head down, contact the bat and grass at the same time, and follow through. Try using a "lob foot wedge" with 60 degrees of loft!:D

Talk about keep your head down. One time I was clearing the catcher to cover a fly down the left field line. I was taking my mask off and moving toward 3rd base when I stepped squarely on the bat. I could feel myself doing a face first 'free fall'. The whole time I was making a very ungracefull prat fall I kept my 'eyes everlastingly on the ball', and made the "thats a catch" call from the ground.

Moral of the story. Look out for bats on the ground.