Pregame topics

[Tim C]

R1 with less than two out:

Batter places a sacrifice bunt down.

Play is going to First Base. BU moves into position for the call.

Call is made at first by BU . . . At this time R1 (who has now reached 2nd base) takes off for third.

Over the years the PBUC has changed the mechanic several times.

Advanced mechanics, at this time, allow the PU to cover the potential play at third base.

This is commonly called: "Who has the second call at third?"

The discussion always follows that some BU's say, "I am a BASE UMPIRE that means I call the bases . . . I will make both calls!" other BU's will say, "Great, take the call this allows me to get a little closer to first so that I can handle anything that might happen!"

We then get into the "reason" most need to be careful about the PU going to third . . . PBUC worries that the PU will release too early to cover third and not communicate well enough so that the BU may look for help and find his pardner 1/2 way to third base.

We also see in actual FED mechanics that they want the PU to take the BR to third on a bases empty triple.

Hope this explains the play.

(The Original & Ever Slimming)

Tee