do it differently

[Cecil4]

These are some things in our umpiring I would teach and do differently.

1. Position base umpires related to runner(s), not fielders, initially midway.
2. Shade base umpires toward next likely play, not lead runner.
3. With 3 umpires, U3 has first priority on CF fly balls.
4. Call pitches at strike zone, ignoring where caught.
5. Minimize drama on called third strike.
6. Explain reasoning for set vs. walk the line.
7. Give warning for illegal pitches, 10U, 12U, Class C

[SNIPERBBB]

Think we can safely eliminate the C position with runner on 3B only. Or at least have that position closer to 2B.The only play there is a lock from f2 or f1. The manual position I think gives a poor angle unless you step in several steps. Maybe the B position for U3 in 3 man wouldn't be bad as a replacement for C.

We're taught that if U1 doesn't go on the fly ball to CF that U3 goes so maybss well make U3 the default

Who is teaching calling strikes based on the catch?

What do you mean by drama? I would be completely fine dropping the lunch out and sticking with the hammer.

I love walking the line. Mainly because I hate standing in place for long periods of time I need to move.

[Cecil4]

2. I was saying SS side shading closer to 3rd with runner on 2nd or 3rd. Runner on 3rd pickoffs are usually swipe tags, so the closer to the line the better. I move from my start position to the line if the runner is off the base.

4. I didn't mean anyone teaching that on strikes, but tracking to the mitt implies that and coaches get used to seeing height based on the mitt. I prefer just seeing the zone at the plate and not "tracking".

5. By drama, I meant the rub-it-in oversell and the ceremonial bow-arrow after the call. Especially with one foot raised.

6. Walking the line is fine. My concern is the justification for walking the line and for going set on the line with a runner is the same, therefore contradictory.