Preventive Umpiring?

[CecilOne]

Originally posted by Skahtboi
That is why, when working the two man system, more and more the clinics are teaching you, in FP, for one umpire to always be watching the infield. Never, ever should both umpires turn their backs on a potential play. The way the mechanic works is simple. When all play has ceased, and the ball has been returned to the pitcher in the circle, the PU releases the BU to take his/her position in the field. When the BU has reached said position and is watching the infield, they release the PU to take their position behind the plate. This way, there is no needless killing the ball, and nothing can happen without an umpire taking note of it and being able to rule on it.


Scott

Good stuff, but it seems to me the PU should go first as the PU has more to do and usually a shorter distance. Then when the PU is back "home" and watching, the BU can move out. As PU, I try to back-pedal after a play to observe as much as possible while I'm returning. Even as BU, if I can turn around, check the nearest runner over my shoulder and back-pedal, I do it there, too. Both of course, after the pitcher has the ball in the circle. Side note: head down myopic views are for typists, not officials.