And yet I don't see AAA guys working in my town doing this. When umpires go to PBUC camp they are told to set aside some things taught at school.

Like I said yesterday, use softball mechanics for softball games.

But I'm still shooting someone out once a week a la Luciano.

and I'm still gonna consider it then chicken out. :D

Sometimes ya do what ya gotta do.

Ok guys that have been to advanced camps or are tuned into the latest I have the following info from 2009 ASA National Umpire Schools' Drill Book.


drill 16 - Calls at third base by plate umpire

The plate umpire will leave the plate area....

He will assume the basic position, feet approximately at shoulder width, weight distributed on the 'balls' of his feet with his hands resting'slightly above the knees'.

Do not plant. Keep your weight on the 'balls' ... so you can move...

The instructor I had did not emphasize this position. The drill was more about getting down to the third base area.

So, guys what is the way the big guys want it done. ie. Do they want you set, on balls of feet with hands you know where (like in the book) or what?

That was instructed in our area also.

Further notes:

"Hands-On-Knees Set" creates a feeling of being locked into the play. With your legs spread slightly wider than shoulder with and your hands resting on your knees the umpire is not in a position to suddenly run a great distance. The umpire is however on a solid platform which can rotate and move forward or backward one or two steps to make the call. Hands "on" the knees, not "pressed into" the knees allows you to focus your vision towards the play. It stabilizes the whole picture you have of the play. It should be used anytime you are in the infield or have taken a few steps and are about to make a close call. The closeness of pickoff plays demands this consistent support.