No pitch if batter not ready?

[WestMichBlue]

Excuse me, but why isn't your hand up? I watch the batter when she steps into the box. I watch her eyes so I know when she is settled and is ready for the pitch. Then I drop the hand and allow the batter to pitch.

If she pitches while my hand is up, I jump out and holler "no pitch." Then quickly - "Pitcher, watch me! You don't pitch until I let you!" Too many umpires are lazy and allow the players to dictate the pace of the game. Sorry girls, that is my job and I will not abdicate the responsibility to you.

WMB