Any mechanic you'd like to add ???
 

Here's one that I try to do --
when I am working the plate and my base umpire
(2 man crew) is in the C or D slot; and there is a bases clearing
event--- I'll call time and move out to clean off the plate
(even if it really doesn't need it). This give my partner a little
extra time to get over to the A slot for the next batter.
Any things you do to make your games go a little smoother
that is not in the Mechanics book ??

I call every pitch that isn't hit a "strike". Everyone complains until they realize they get to go home in about 40 min! :D

I'll bite. What is the "D" slot in two umpire mechanics?

Is it what is more commonly known at C2; off the right shoulder of F6, rather than "C" or C1, the left shoulder? Or is it the outlawed 10 x 10, not approved by ASA or NCAA?

I still advocate with:
R1@3B - the better BU position is nearer to 2B, not a straight C.

I think pickoffs at 1B with BU in C should be PU's responsibility.

I think the "IF is on signal between pu/bu", which is just about universal as far as I know, should go ahead and be coded.

You mean there is a signal that is not coded by ASA yet is "universal"?

My, my.

Imagine that.

Umpires thinking on their own.

works out great as long as its pregamed and not sloppy bull**** like banging the hands together.....

I've reminded more than one umpire, new and veteran, that it's always nice to clean the plate while the catcher is recovering from getting roughed up by a foul ball right back in the mask or elsewhere.

The only other person out there for us might be our partner, but it sure is nice to work with a catcher, and have a catcher work with you - even if no one says anything.

Speaking ASA

I would have no problem with that. It may be an issue with the younger levels where the coaches think the pick-off at 3rd as a major issue instead of just throwing the ball back to the pitcher.

The only problem is that the umpire is just as far away, has other duties which may delay his/her ability to react and get around the batter and catcher with that mask off. A pick-off will never be the PU's call because of his/her primary duties and inability to move into position earlier. The BU, though at a distance can start moving the moment s/he is aware the batter is not swinging. The PU does not have that ability.

It has been for quite a while. Check this year's Umpire Manual (page 208, Umpire to Umpire Communications, Para 4.)

I understand Mike and that is true.

In practice, I feel short changed as BU on this call and feel PU is usually better. As PU I definately feel better about this call. I am sure I could take it in most cases. I ALWAYS 100% talk about this play in pregame with my partner. I tell the PU that I'll make the call, but I'm willing to let the coach as me to go for help and see if he/she saw something a little different.

You just cant see the moment of the hand touching the bag in a good pick off attempt.

I 've also had situations where everything is very active on the bases with pick off attempts, lead offs etc, and its intense and a coach asks for time. I will take the time to talk with the PU about this play real quick.


HA! There it is. Hey good job getting that in there. I never noticed that. No wonder its universal! :D What brought it up in my thinking is I had another umpire in pregame want to use some other signal (I dont remember what it was - holding the hat or something) and I said lets just do it this way like everyone else.

#4 in my book...

In NCAA, while it is still the BU's call initially, this is one of those plays that results in an automatic appeal to your partner if asked.

You are right, FFT. I will correct my post.

Thanks,

Actually, as has already been pointed out, it is codified!

You really didn't think there would be a response, did you?

And for a while.

Came from usage dating back to the 60's...maybe longer.