Protecting the Hand

[Striker991]

Because of a genetic condition, I am more likely to break bones than most people. Therefore, I take more precaution than most to prevent getting hit in unprotected areas. I have a repetitive motion that I use that not only protects my hands, but gets me in the same position for every pitch. When I go into my squat, my hands go palm-down under my thighs. On the first pitch for each batter, I mentally note where my hands end up and go there every pitch for that batter. This will change with each batter because I like to keep my eyes at the top of the zone whenever possible. Keeping my palms and hands facing the pitcher keeps the meat of my arms facing the pitch. If I get hit, it's in the muscle. Elbows are away from the pitch and directly by my side.

This is just my two cents and what works for me. In the four years I have been umpiring, I have been hit in my arms less than ten times, none giving me more than just a bruise.

The way Mick describes it is the way our association teaches it, and is what works best for most of our umpires.