Thought about this while watching another game for the sole purpose of watching the umps. They did 3-man. I had never seen three man, let alone worked in it, so I thought I would check it out. I watched and think I figured out most of the rotations and mechanics, but would obviously not try to use them without actually going to a clinic in it or something. Anyway, my question is this. While watching, I noticed that when calling a ball foul, the umps would say "foul ball," the whole phrase. I used to also, but read somewhere that you are only supposed to say "foul." So i got into that habit. What does everyone think? Is there a "right" way to call a ball foul?

I only use "foul," so I guess you weren't watching my game.

Everyone already knows it's a ball, so I avoid the extra word. That's also what I teach.

Still, it's a minor point -- if that's the only thing an umpire has to worry about, s/he's a very good umpire. ;)

Well if it is a fair ball I dont say anythin I just point. If it is an obvious foul ball I just say "Foul" and if it is close I yell "Foul!" I really dont think this matters how you call as long you are consistent and people know what you are calling

<i> Originally posted by FVB_Ryan </i>

<b> Thought about this while watching another game for the sole purpose of watching the umps. They did 3-man. I had never seen three man, let alone worked in it, so I thought I would check it out. I watched and think I figured out most of the rotations and mechanics, but would obviously not try to use them without actually going to a clinic in it or something. Anyway, my question is this. While watching, I noticed that when calling a ball foul, the umps would say "foul ball," the whole phrase. I used to also, but read somewhere that you are only supposed to say "foul." So i got into that habit. What does everyone think? Is there a "right" way to call a ball foul? </b>

Most of the time I simply say FOUL, however, IMO these are minor points. Same is true when batter is HBP. Many say dead ball when the taught mechanic is to simply say TIME and award the batter first base. However, these things are minor compared to other aspects of umpiring.

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