3 umpire system discussion

[Big Slick]

Originally Posted by Tru_in_Blu

We had a few discussions at a 3 umpire system recently. I'll not comment initially to see what others might think.

1. One guy wanted to know if U1 & U3 could switch runner leaving early responsibility in a first & third situation. (Pre-gamed.)

The leaving early responsibilities with a runner on third - U3 and first - U1. Why would anyone want to change this? U3 is next to the runner on third; U1 is watching first, just like a two umpire case. Therefore, short answer is: No.

2. Can/should an umpire who has chased call OBS when it happens (assumes neither of the other umpires saw it)?

The short answer is: no, but I would never say something so absolute (irony intended). I would say it would be ok in a case of a runner being knocked down, or where the remaining umpire is totally out of position (as if forgetting to assume the base umpire responsibility). But in your run of the mill obstruction: no.

3. Should or must an umpire that chases verbalize to his/her partners?

Yes, the chasing umpire should communicate in some fashion. I say: "Chase"; others say: "going" or "two man". Furthermore, the plate umpire should also communicate the umpire chased: I say: TWO MAN. Even when an umpire doesn't chase, you should also communicate the rotation (this from the USA play clarification two years ago).