ASA SP Strike Zone

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by REFANDUMP

Using the pitch landing spot can help you, but shouldn't be the lone factor in calling a pitch. Pitches that are 6' can land much "deeper" than a 10' pitch and still be a strike. Forget where the batter is standing and focus on the plate. If the catcher doesn't give you a good look, ask him to move so you can get the look you desire. If he doesn't co-operate, benefit of the doubt goes to the batter. He'll usually get the hint after a pitch or two that he doesn't agree with. Slowpitch is a hitters game, but also remember that a pitcher has an obligation to throw a "hittable" pitch. I also never call a pitch a strike that lands much over 12" behind the back of the box. It technically may be a strike, but it's not expected to be called one by anyone. Calling this pitch a strike at higher levels would not go over well. Be consistent and players will adjust. No two umpires call 6' or 10' the same, so go with a height that you are comfortable with and stick with it. Hope this helps some.

Forget the bold portions above. Other than to insure the ball doesn't hit the plate, where it lands should be totally and completely irrelevant. For that matter, whether it passed through the strike zone should already be determined by that point.

Just like in FP, you have to work on your strike zone. And I'm not suggesting you go crazy, just don't use the spot on the ground as a crutch as it does for some people. It is a bad habit and I've seen a lot of umpires end up just staring at the ground and it cost you a load of strikes. And personally, I don't care what the players like or don't like, including the big boys.

Andy is correct, the mechanics are the same for both games. If the catcher pushes you back, you see what you can see. Old school (Bernie) told the umpire to stand where s/he normally would and if the ball bounces off you and allows the runners to go, tough. New school states you stand behind the catcher no matter what. You do the best you can from there.