Mike - like I said, we only give the signal when partner (by looking) asks. I don't stand there pointing down or closing the fist on a close strike until I see PU look at me. I don't lift my foot at home until I see BU look at me.

It's almost a silent (and quicker way) to say "Do you have a pulled foot?!" or "Did that ball hit the ground?!"

And by looking for the signal, we trust that partner is going to go with it - I don't believe I've ever had an instance where partner asked (either signal), I gave the signal, and he went the other way. I can agree with you that it would be a problem if that happened.

I've seen it happen. It can get ugly real quick and, like I said, the umpires are in a no-win situation and could have trouble with just about every call the remainder of that game. And, hopefully, it wasn't the front end of a DH.

You're in the "B" or "C" position & there's a play at 1B that causes F3 to stretch, maybe a lot or maybe just a lean. So before you make your call you look over at the PU to see if he is standing on one foot. If he is then the BR is safe because F3 pulled her foot? :D

Is that a generally accepted signal in softball?

I've always called what I saw and IF asked I'll go for help, if I'm not 100% sure of my call. IMHO if you're using a lot of signals to verify with one another that you've made the correct call and the coach picks up on it then you'll have a lot of credibility issues. The coach might think that you can't get your own calls without a signal from your partner or you might become so dependent on your partner covering your butt that you won't hustle as much. Not saying that will happen for sure but it could, again IMHO.

That is the method prescribed by ASA

The clinched fist out to the side is the recommended mechanic on a caught third strike in NCAA games. While I am working their games, I will do it their way. If I am not sure if it was caught, or if I know it was uncaught for sure, then the signal is nothing.

According to NCAA NUS, that is to be done on every strike three where the batter may become a batter-runner only. The plate umpire should know that help is always available if needed; but, to make the obvious and known calls without reference to the "help".

Giving the signal when a batter cannot become a batter-runner will be a negative evaluation point.

You don't signal strike on an uncaught strike? Shouldn't you indicate a strike (especially on a taken strike) and then wait for the results before indicating an out?

JM - he's talking about the BU's signal, not PU.

:D :D :D :D of the day

I am talking about as the BU, not the PU. Of course I signal strike if I am the PU.