Need a little help on a mechanic - please

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by Andy

Since Emily is the primary contributor to the CCA manual and she is also one of the people most responsible for my learning as an umpire, this is the mechanic I have been taught.

I know that Mike disagrees with me, but I like this. Most of the partners that I work with expect this and do not release to the play at third until they have observed the "action" at first base.

Well, Andy, it isn't just me, but ASA disagrees with you, too.

And what happens if the PU doesn't see it? Maybe he takes a shot with a bat or a catcher steps and blocks him out of the play? And giving priority to a play at 1B over being in position for a play at 3B? I don't think so.

It is presumptive and IMO gives an umpire an out for developing a bad habit. I believe this mechanic reverses the priority an umpire should employ. Instead of looking for possibly unseen negatives on a play, the umpire should worry about the s/he DOES see/hear and make the call based on the information available.