Open up the zone based upon score?

[mick]

Assume a state championship LL 15 yr/-olds with a 9 run difference a couple innings before the mercy rule in in effect. Loser goes home.

Leading team throwing strikes and disciplined hitting of everything close. Losing team pitching all over the place but swinging at strikes.

Opening up the zone benefits the losing team, the fans and possibly the umpires, and it penalizes a well-coached, well-trained team that was having some fun.

Retaining the zone benefits prolongs the pain.

Unknowns:
Mental effect on both teams.
Substitute ringers or pitchers yet to enter.
A breakdown, or injury, of leading pitcher or key player.


I am seeking a philosophy, a common practice, a tradition that "real" umpires use.

I can live with a proper zone and bare the pain.

Thanks
mick