Umpire putting Batter/Runner in jeopardy?

[MichaelVA2000]

MNBlue,

My 2006 and 2007 Federation Umpire's manual says on page 34 under Checked-Swing: "If the umpire calls the pitch a ball and the catcher request help, ask for it. If in doubt go to your partner before they ask you."

Originally posted by MNBlue
NFHS rules

I WOULD not go to my partner. I feel that sometimes you have to live with your calls, good or bad. By going to my partner, I am putting the BR in jeopardy for not making a call for whatever reason I did not make. Not fair - probably. But what is the greater unfairness.

I have had the pleasure to work with some people who would call the pitch a strike and let the chips fall where they may, since that gives everyone an equal opportunity to complete the play. My feeling is - I called the pitch a ball because I thought it was a ball. I am not now going to put the BR in jeopardy to cover up a call I may have kicked. Sometimes, I have to be the fall guy.

To the defensive coach: Coach, I called it a ball and I am sticking with my call. In NFHS rules, I don't HAVE to go to my partner for help. Life happens.