pointing on strikes?

[scottk_61]

Originally Posted by bniu

I know ASA requires hammer for all strikes but I know FED, PONY, LL don't really care so much. Does anyone use the point for strikes in non-ASA ball? I also do baseball, and I prefer the point much more than the hammer and i'll use the hammer for strikes only when I absolutely have to. In non-ASA ball, I compromise a bit and use the hammer for called strikes and point for swinging strikes. I really think that strikes should all be pointed with and the hammer should be reserved for outs and only outs. We all remember the Doug Eddings hammer ambiguity right? and I just point to one side without turning my head...

You need to know the history of the game to understand the point and the fist.
The use of signals came about because there was a deaf outfielf player (BB of course) and he needed to know the status of pitches etc.
The point came about because in the old days, the scorekeeper would be near the 1st base dugout and thus the plate man pointed in that direction.
We don't need to point as it does not signal anything useful except that your finger is on your hand.
Make your signals clear and complete in accordance with your associations requirements.
I umped long enough ago to remember having to "flush the john" for an out or strike. In other words you reached up like you were pulling the chain on an old fashioned style of commode. (yep, that is old)
Pointing is a favorite of the arrogant ones, of whom I was a member for a long time. I started in small ball and you JUST HAD TO because they always had before.
If you want to get some respect from the coaches and players, not to mention your partners, call it the right way or plan on enduring the eye rolling and snide remarks about the noob who doesn't have a clue.

As an aside, do any of you remember where the left hand to right elbow (in calling a strike) mechanic came from and why?

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by scottk_61

As an aside, do any of you remember where the left hand to right elbow (in calling a strike) mechanic came from and why?

Same as the left hand to belly on the out hammer. It was introduced as a separate step to slow down the hammer.