Obstruction at the plate

[WestMichBlue]

Originally Posted by Hoosier_Dave

What you're saying is that I wouldn't signal delayed dead ball (hand out to side) until both elements are met. Having the catcher camp in front of the plate is not obstruction until the runner gets there and has to alter her running/sliding etc. Thanks.

While we are at it, let's talk about positioning. Typically umpires get too close to the tag play at home. In the past we simply focused on the catcher and awaited the ball to see the play.

Now we have to get back further; far enough to see both the catcher and the runner. The runner may deviate 10' - 15' - 20' upline and we need to be able to see that.

I am thinking that we need to change the normal position (1B to home line) and move more behind the plate (2B to home line) This cuts down on the angle needed to see the runner and we can be closer to the plate. It also gives us a better view of the swipe tag on a runner that is sliding wide of the plate.

Comments?

WMB