Protecting the Hand

[tcannizzo]

I agree that it is impossible to get hit by a foul tip. Rookie mistake. Thanks.

I s'pose my question is directed to those who would not think of calling a game without plate shoes. Perhaps I should re-phrase it to get to the point of my question:

a.)Is pain, broken bones more likely with feet than with hands?

b.)Are you more likely to get hit in the foot than in the hands?

c.) Does anyone put both hands behind their back? I raised this question at the National Umpire School to Jim Craig. He said he was OK with it, but it would be up to the individual UIC.

I have been calling with hands in front, pretty much with fisted hands and my thumbs at the belt, or slightly below. Just looking for the optimal approach to avoid injury. I can live with pain, but would like to avoid injury.