Three umpire mechanics question

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Andy

ASA SP w/Stealing....

R1 on Second, R2 on first, 1 out.

Pitch get past F2 and R1 takes off for third, F2 is quick to retrieve ball, throws to third, R1 stops and reverses direction, is caught in a rundown.

R1 is diving back into second and is tagged out on a close play. Out call is made by U1. R2 is waiting near second and steps on on the base as soon as the out call is made.

Question: Who does the call belong to on R1 in the rundown?

I say that U3 has that entire rundown between second and third and U1 stays with R2.

In the absolute black and white, I agree, but variations based on the situation, with communication still override.

With R2 hanging right by 2nd base, I see no reason why U1 shouldn't bracket outside the 1st to 2nd base line, communicating with U3 "I'm here", keeping R2 in front of him, and taking the tag out right in front of him. If R2 had stayed near or returned near 1st base, then U1 can't do that.

But this play, as you decribe it, should allow that variation with communication, making the out call more believable.