Flinching

[Del-Blue]

Last weekend, doing a fall tournament at George Mason University. I get dressed to do the plate, and as the pitcher is warming up to start the game, I get behind the catcher to look at a couple of pitches. First pitch bounces in front of the plate, catcher doesn't even get a glove on it, and it wacks me on the hand. I look at the catcher, and say.... That's a real good way to start. Thought I had a broken knuckle

[whiskers_ump]

Del Blue:

I get dressed to do the plate, and as the pitcher is warming up to start the game, I get behind the catcher to look at a couple of pitches.

Glad to hear others do that. I always like to look at a
couple of pitches from both pitchers in first inning.

Luckly, I have not been hit.

[AtlUmpSteve]

I have observed more than a few coaches, particularly at the NCAA level, think (and state) that means the umpire hasn't seen pitches at that level before, and is hoping for a quick tutorial. Frankly, I don't care how he/she warms up; I will get behind the catcher and look at the pitches that I have to call, when it matters.

[whiskers_ump]

Coaches may think what they want. It is something I have
always done, and will continue to do.

I realize a lot of pitchers warm up in a way that would not
be acceptable during the game, it just allows me to loosen
up get ready for the real thing. I usually look at three pitches
from both pitchers, unless the coach is the one receiving the
warm-ups. Then I wait until it is time to signal the bell for the
start of the game.