Umpire Verbal Communication/Signals

[PeteBooth]

Hi all:

Greymule's OP about the Foul Tip signal prompted me for this post

In your view what verbal communication / signals if any should be given. Also, I am talking about a 2 person crew.

Here's an example of a pet peeve of mine.

As BU you are the A Position. Fly ball (can of corn) to F8. Your responsibility as BU is to watch B1 touch first base, watch for a potential OBS on the part of F3 and take the batter turned runner around the bases should they try and advance.

Now even though the catch is a "can of corn" I do not know that so I want my partner to simply say "Pete we got a catch" This also lets the runner know that he is out as well.

I also like to know the count. I still use the indicator on the bases (I know some umpire associations frown on this but it is accepted where I work)

Also, hand signals

1. IFR
2.Timing Play
3. PU will indicate that he has tag up at third and is staying home

There are others as well.

In a nutshell what forms of verbal communication / hand signals if any do you give to your partner.

Pete Booth