three man mechanics

[refjef40]

I'm in my fifth year of H.S. ball and am fortunate enough to be doing my first play-off game.I will be at third base but I have never done three man before.My question may seem silly but I would rather ask here than at the pre-game.Is there any situation other than a runner on first that i would be in the slot at second?I believe with first and second I'm back at third.Also any tips about the third base umpire that you veterns have would be apprieciated.Thanks in advance.

[whiskers_ump]

You are correct, that is the only time you are in the B
Position. Discuss with partners on what situtations you
are to go out on. Check on tag up and lead off
responsibilities. If deviating from norm procedures,
communicate with your partners. We normally alternate
cleaning pitching rubber with 1st base umpire.

[IRISHMAFIA]

CHEAT! That's right, cheat up the line when on third. As you would do on first, take a step with the pitch and be prepared to cut inside. Never cut in between a runner and the base to which they are proceeding. When going out on a fly ball, remember you are not in a race to beat the fielder to the ball. Just go out as far as you need to see the play and then stay out there until the play is over. Same with a ball down the base line. Go out just far enough to get a good look, set up then make the call, don't make the call while you are still running.

Have a good time! The Three-Umpire System is great and fun to do.

[llblue]

I'm confused as to why U2 would ever be in B, I think you meant C or mod C if you're a veteran.

Live Ball:

No runners: U1= A U2= D
R1 only: U1= A U2= C or mod C
R2 only: U1= B U2= D or mod D
R3 only: U1= A U2= D

If you're playing on a 60' diamond there is never a need to go out. The only one going out should be U2 in a four man crew.

If your crew does decide to go out for whatever reason, remember to rotate. If U1 goes out from A, PU covers mod A, U2 covers plate.

Remember to stay one base ahead of the runner at all times. Button hook in only when needed. You can certainly get a good look at a play in mod D without becoming part of the play.

Between Innings:
U1 and U2 are stationed in the ready position about 15 feet behind the outfielders, inside the line away from any spectators.

Most evaluators look for that, most umpires fail to to do that. It just looks good.

If you're not used to it, U2 in a 3-man is the most difficult position to be in. Mirror everything you'd do as U1 and you should be resonably ok.

Make sure you position yourself were you can see the entire plate area and are not blocked by a coacher or other personnel. It is a playoff game, you are entitled to move any media who may be in the way.

[whiskers_ump]

I am under the impression that refjef40 was
referring to softball 3 man procedures. We
dont use the C position in the 3 man set-up.

Baseball maybe

[refjef40]

Just wanted to thank you guys for the help.The game was agreat one to nothing game you would expect in a playoff
game.I only made one mechanical mistake that I know of when I followed the batter runner from second to third with no one on and found the pu waiting at third!Now I know to stay at second on that.Funny thing was I had five bang-bang tag calls at my bases and nobody else had any.My partners said man its usally quiet over there at third.Anyway I had great fun and hope to keep moving up.

[whiskers_ump]

Glad things worked out for you and hope that
you get a couple more playoffs. My playoff
games finished Tuesday, so down to AFA and ASA
gigs. Good Luck rest of the way.