Asking for Help

[Durham]

Originally Posted by Spence

2 man crew in a game I watched tonight.

R1

RHP picks off R1 but the base umpire calls him safe because he can't see that the runner's hand is not on the base. F3 dropped straight down with the knee and prevented the runner from touching the base.

I could see it because I was looking straight down the first base line so I assume the HP umpire could as well.

I completely understand how the field up didn't see it.

However, what would prevent that umpire from asking the home plate ump if the runner touched the base?

I'll offer this answer and honestly I am surprised that noone has yet. As a PU I see less than 1% of plays at first on a pick-off, and when I do see them I see them very late. The reason is as a PU I am watching the pitcher for balk and if I turn to see the pick-off I will miss a balk. Umpire school and many clinics teach the PU to not turn to see the play, but watch the pitcher for balk, and if asked I would probably tell a coach, "I would ask my partner for help if I could, but I know he wasn't watching the play he was looking for a balk." After all, they are the ones that are always trying to teach us mechanic; you know, like where we should be and who should make what call.

[Spence]

Originally Posted by Durham

I'll offer this answer and honestly I am surprised that noone has yet. As a PU I see less than 1% of plays at first on a pick-off, and when I do see them I see them very late. The reason is as a PU I am watching the pitcher for balk and if I turn to see the pick-off I will miss a balk. Umpire school and many clinics teach the PU to not turn to see the play, but watch the pitcher for balk, and if asked I would probably tell a coach, "I would ask my partner for help if I could, but I know he wasn't watching the play he was looking for a balk." After all, they are the ones that are always trying to teach us mechanic; you know, like where we should be and who should make what call.

Good info.

However, how long are you watching? Wouldn't the balk occur before the throw?

[Durham]

Originally Posted by Spence

Good info.

However, how long are you watching? Wouldn't the balk occur before the throw?

Most balks would occur before the throw, but some occur as the throw is taking place. The step balk comes to mind.

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by Spence

Good info.

However, how long are you watching? Wouldn't the balk occur before the throw?

Probably -- but it might bappen so close to the throw that the umpire wouldn't have time to move his head and get set before the play at first.

There are times to get help, and times whn you can't. This is a time you can't.

Download (or read on-line) the NCAA rules book. There's a good discussion in there about "getting help."