I've finally seen it............

[Don Mueller]

Originally Posted by JRutledge

It has nothing to do with "lowering yourself." How hard is it to see a bag that is off the ground? This is not something like the plate that in imbedded in the ground. The bases is off the damn ground. Even with some dirt on it, it is easy to see. If you cannot see an object sticking out of the ground, you need to get into better position or go to an eye doctor. I also did not say I would not kick some dirt off the bag. I said I would not use a “plate brush” (notice the name) to brush dirt off the bag.

I understand that you haven't done a solo on a poor field in a long time, maybe ever. I can say that with confidence because your statement about the bag being off the ground therefore visible is a dead giveaway.
I'll guarantee you there are plenty of umpires on this board that would verify what I'm saying but they're scared of getting flamed.

Originally Posted by JRutledge

Also one of the biggest myths in any kind of officiating, is the fact that we think "getting plays right" is what makes us a better official/umpire.

If angle and distance is important then why is bag visibility so unimportant?