Is there a mechanic for this ?

[NCASAUmp]

Originally Posted by Tru_in_Blu

Safe w/ both hands? Yes

Fair ball down 1B line w/ left hand? Answered that already, but: line drive w/ mask likely still on will signal w/ left hand; blooper w/ mask likely off will signal w/ right hand.

Dead ball w/ both hands? Yes, of course. Depends on situation as in above. Foul ball in the batter's box or foul directly to the screen I'll still have mask on. Blooper down a foul line, mask off.

My wish for clarity was that if you can avoid pointing with a mask in your hand, should you do that?

Ted

In the end, my point was that we are taught that if we're explaining a call before making a call (ie., pulled foot, SAFE), we point with the left hand, giving the clarification, THEN making the call. This has been hammered into our heads over and over. I'd say this is as consistent with what ASA teaches as possible, until I'm told otherwise.

In this case, point to the trailing runner with the left hand and call "trailing runner is out" as you switch to the hammer with your right hand. I think that's as good as it'll get. There's no "you," you're not making it personal, you're just stating the facts of the call.