Correct Mechanics on Pick-Off Play

[bkbjones]

That's why it's so !@#$!@# important to pregame with your partner.
I ALWAYS cover this play in the pregame. If I'm doing the plate, I ask my partner how they want to handle this. If I am the base umpire and my partner doesn't bring it up, I tell them how I prefer to handle it.

The way I prefer to handle it is to take it myself IF I can get a good look at it. As one who had it drilled into their head at 14 years of age to NEVER GUESS an out, if I don't see it, I go to my partner. If neither of us see an out, then guess what: we have a safe. I don't get paid for calling safes, which is why I bust my butt to get in the best possible position to see the play.