One man mechanic at first base

[NC_Blue]

I really don't have a problem doing what I'm told.....but I DO think it's the wrong thing to do.

The reasons are:

1) In normal situations (one man), I would NOT wait for the runner to return to 1st base (assuming runner was safe and DID touch the bag) before returning to my position behind the plate.

2) Remaining there (near 1st base) tips the defense's hand that I still have action at 1st.

3) Yes....I have, in affect, taken away the defensive team's ability to make a live ball appeal. BUT....I have NOT taken away their ability to make a dead ball appeal.

If the live ball appeal is going to be made....it MOST LIKELY is going to be made pretty quickly, anyway.

My concern here is in the area of CONSISTENCY. That is all. If I am to wait until the player returns to the bag.....or until the defense has made a live ball appeal play.....every time......THEN....I should wait there.....until the player returns to the bag (even though he is not in jeopardy) every time.

Is this being unreasonable?

Jeff