I agree that he doesn't need to go behind the mound, but he needs to get on the 1st base side of the cut out no doubt. He has R1 all the way into second, possible OBS/INT, a tag, a force, basepath violation, etc.

I wouldn't want to be hanging out in the baseline for all that...

If we are all still refering to the original OP, the defense is playing in, we are behind them, close to or on the baseline, preferably in the "deep B" position. Since the D is in, any ball to the infielders that is fielded cleanly is more than likely going to go home, then possibly to 1st for the DP. If the ball is muffed, the play will likely go to first. If the ball stays in the infield, there is no reason for U2 to "bust in to the working area." There will be no rotations so the only responsibility U2 has is at 2nd base. Since all of the action is originating in front of him, it is acceptable, and easier, to position himself outside the basepath for any possible play and looking for R1 to touch 2nd. That way, you are not crossing paths with any infielder going back. If, for any reason, the ball happens to end up in the outfield on an overthrow, you can then come into the cutout area for any subsequent play. I could see myself going into the cutout area on the secondary throw to 1st on the DP, after R1 has rounded, all the while keeping my eye on the ball.

It is possible to take any play at second from behind. Most ML umpires do just this now on clean hits where the BR tries to stretch it into a double.

Ding, ding, ding, ding.....we have a winner,


Are you paying attention cc6?

I have never heard of a position F.

And?

Agreed. It was Briancurtin who originally said that after the second baseman goes for the ball he will go from super deep B into the working area. I'm not sure an umpire can move that fast. This is his post:

Rich:

Do you think they take the play from behind is based off the angle that the play originates at the base??

In other words, could a play coming in from right field dictate a position that is on the CF side of 2nd base, but a play coming from F5 on a force may require a look from the cut out and not from that same angle?

I'm just not so sure "any play" at second can be taken from behind as you said. Some, for sure.

U2 would be inside on a play from F5.