Machanic Question

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by vcblue

18A Sate team that wins goes receives a National birth, team that loses goes in to the looser bracket. R1 on 2nd, R2 on 1st, no outs. Fly ball to short center field. I was BU came in and button hooked in and saw a diving catch by F8. I signal to the PU that I had a catch. Because of the location of the ball R1 and R2 were half way to their next base. Next thing I see that they both take off to the next base. At this point I am wondering if the ball hit the ground first. I did not hear an out call, so I look back and he is given a week out signal (fist never made it above the shoulder). The Defense throws the ball to second to appeal R1 not tagging up and then the fielder tags R2. 3 outs, game over, s*** hits the fan.
I don’t think my partner had a clue whether the ball hit the ground first or not. I was coming around and was not set, but I am positive I saw the ball go in to the glove.

Do you give a catch sign to your partner or do you wait for your partner to ask what you saw (if coach request help and your partner ask)?

Okay, since neither gave you an answer, I will.

I will usually give a nod to my partner, but only if I'm sure. Whether he sees it or not isn't my problem, I've got my responsibilities and can only offer so much assistence.

In the past, many umpires would give a hand signal (often a closed fist), but the players and coaches have picked up on that and you just as well make openly conflicting calls. For that reason, I have tried to stay away from little stuff like that.