Is this obstruction on the batter?

Originally Posted by SAump

This is a topic that cries out for more than one opinion, one place, and one time.

You can discuss it all you want. I have 2 PAC-10 evaluators that also evaluate in my college group who have instilled this into me. You will have no argument that could sway my thinking!

Evaluators or not, there really IS times where you HAVE to be seen. Think it through and it will make sense.

That old school thinking about umpires being invisible is like Carl's idea of calling the game that is expected to be called (meaning, if the throw beats him there, but they don't actually tag the runner, call the out anyway, etc...) has hosed the game for too many years. THANKFULLY umpiring is getting away from this kind of "path of least resistance" kind of thinking. It pisses players and coaches off, and it is far too much to have to thinking about while trying to call a game.

Indeed, it is a nice day when the game is so tame and uneventful that I don't have to "sell" a call. But when a call needs to be made, you can bet I am going to make it! I am not going to give a casual out call on a banger at first in the top of the 9th when it is the possible tying run! I am not going to give a quiet "no he didn't" when the batter has a close check swing where he really did go. etc.... Close foul balls. I am coming up BIG! Etc....

There are times when you just HAVE to be noticed!