Slowpitch Strike Zone

[Robmoz]

Originally posted by Dakota

I've never called a slow pitch game. But I'm curious. If you use "deep" what do you mean by it, and how does it relate to the strike zone?

Some of the vernacular on the SP diamond is not necessarily by the book but has become accepted (if not expected) by many SP players. Describing a pitch as being "deep" simple refers to the position or flight path as it relates to the batter's box.

Likewise, the following words or phrases are quite commonplace in SP or at least understood by the masses:

• flat (illegal pitch)
• short (dirt in front of plate)
• deep (deep in the batter's box)
• dish (ball hit the plate)
• gottabee (has to be fair ball)

Its always fun to work a game in a league where the players don't usually get an experienced, trained, mechanically proficient, and knowledgeable umpire. Yes, it takes about 1 inning for everyone to figure out that I am the real deal (as if the ground rules meeting wasn't enough) but its amazing how much fun we all have. I do not control the game but I am in control and never in an arrogant way.

I work hard at being a good umpire, I respect the rules and adhere to the mechanics and I am proud of my efforts.