2 Man Mechanics FED...

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by lawump

As for the theory behind why the base umpire takes the play and the plate umpire stays home: I defer to PBUC (who publishes the "red book") since they eat, sleep and drink umpiring 24/7 for 365 and must have a good reason for adopting this mechanic. Unfortunately, I do not have my red book in front of me as I type this to tell you what their printed theory is.

Even in PBUC, the "right" answer goes back and forth. First, "BU has both plays" is standard, but "PU can come up" is allowed as an "advanced mechanic." Then, "PU has the play" is standard, with "BU has both" being the advanced. Then, switched again.

My theory: On some plays, it's better for BU to take it; on some, it's better for PU to take it. But, you don't know which type of play you have until it's over (or at least too late to react). So, someone gets burned under one mechanic, and switches. Then, someone else gets burned under the change, and changes back.

My conclusion: Coaches "understand" that the play at third could be tough for either umpire, and they'd rather have the help on a pulled-foot or swipe tag at first. So, PU should stay home and BU should have both calls.