90 degree on plays

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by shipwreck

I realize that this is a softball board but I have a question about MLB. We are taught in softball to get a 90 degree angle on a play if possible. I have been watching MLB for years and cannot figure this out. Many times on tag plays at home the umpires set up at third base extended. Also on tag plays at third many times they set up in foul ground in a direct line from second to third with the play coming right at them. On both of these I would think their depth perception would have to come into play. Every umpire has a different depth perception. I would think a 90 would be better for them also. Dave

That angle is great as long as the runner comes into the base at an angle. If the runner come straight in, I don't know how the umpire has a chance. I think that may be why you see the umpires start there, but end up outside the RH batter's box often.