90 degree on plays
 

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.

I was watching a MLB game yesterday and the runner came straight into third from second, no angle. The BU set up in foul ground around the coaches box but about 6 - 8' from the foul line. This is where he made his call. It wasn't a play out of the ordinary, just a runner coming into third. Looked like a HORRIBLE place to make this call. Dave

90º is great on a force play, but might not be the best for a tag. For example, think of a bunt fielded by the catcher and thrown to first. If you are 90º, approximately in the line between 1B and 2B, and the throw was off, I would think there's a good chance of not seeing a tag. I've been taught in the above situation, that when I see the throw will be off, to move toward the foul line for a better angle.

I personally think the extended path of the runner, e.g. third base line extended for a play at the plate, is a great place to be... adjusting as I see the angle of the runner. In 2 umpire mechanics, this could lead to a problem of me being out of position to get down to third rapidly if I have a play there.

Of course, the main thing is not to be straightlined behind the runner.