Just checking..

[AtlUmpSteve]

KBoy, I agree with ALMOST everything you said. Coaches have taught catchers to block the plate and basepath since the beginning of time, and continue to blame runners for contact which is the equal responsibility of the catcher. You know, you hardly ever see the same arguement about the other 3 bases and contact; ever wonder why? I submit most of it the result of training (or lack of) of catchers.

Where you lost me was when you defended raising the arms to "deflect the collision". If there is reaction time to raise the arms, there is reaction time available to swerve, slow up, or slide; at least some effort to minimize contact. To me, the act of raising the arms is more likely an effort to push the defender, or strip the ball, and I have an automatic aggressive move reflex call.