Appeal goes wrong

[EsqUmp]

Originally Posted by Big Slick

Now, you are addressing the "inside/outside" theory with what you are defining as "the modern mechanics." To be clear, I don't think any organization "prescribes" you to stay outside. NCAA (who basically first to allow) doesn't "prescribe" you stay outside; it is an OPTION. If you are referring to PONY (which I am not a member), my understanding is that staying outside is also an OPTION (my belief is the PONY manual was created from the NCAA manual). Realize that the NCAA and PONY manual focus only only on fast pitch mechanics. The NCAA manual was also created with a certain level of umpire in mind, an advanced level that would probably equate to 2% - 5% of the ASA's umpire population.

As for the original play, in ASA/Fed play, BU would have the tag of R1 (from inside the diamond), and if the ball is caught, take the runner into third. If the ball is dropped, PU would have the runner at third. For NCAA 2-umpire (or 3-umpire with a umpire chasing), the tag would be the remaining base umpire (inside or outside the diamond) and the throw the third would belong to PU. I'm unaware how U-trip, PONY, NSA, TCS or PGF cover this play, those are not organizations in which I am familiar.

Just to note, the PONY manual was not created from the NCAA manual. Believe it or not, PONY does have slow pitch, but it is still youth slow pitch and it barely exists anymore.

PONY has the plate umpire cover third base with a sole runner on 2nd, whether the ball is caught or not. Why ASA would distinguish between a caught and a non-caught ball is beyond me. Obviously, if it isn't caught, the base umpire will have BR, leaving R2 to the plate umpire. But why not just leave R2 with the plate umpire even when it is caught? The plate umpire is just standing there. Now, if the ball is down the line and fair/foul is an issue, then the base umpire may need to pick up R2. But that may be necessary whether the ball is caught or not.

If running doesn't get you in a more advantageous position, stop running. It's foolish.