Lessons Learned from 18U Gold (Long Post)

[CecilOne]

Originally Posted by shagpal

In ASA, U3 has to "shoot" outa the chute to cover the BR on said #5 chute play when U1 chases with no runners on. .

In non-NCAA softball, U3 has to cover the BR when U1 chases with no runners on.

[shagpal]

What about LL?

Originally Posted by CecilOne

In non-NCAA softball, U3 has to cover the BR when U1 chases with no runners on.

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by shagpal

What about LL?

Since you asked, and FWIW, the LL Field Mechanics Manual for the 60' diamond calls for U3 to go into the working area, but be responsible for the BR touching first, any play back to first on the BR, and any plays on the BR at second and third.

The problem is, the "working area" is defined as a rectangular area behind the pitcher's mound/circle. The manual doesn't require U3 to go all the way to get to that 10'-12' point as taught in ASA. It's going to be tough for U3 to make a call from this working area on a throwback to first base should the BR turn wide.

Oh, the manual also says the PU should stay in foul territory and drift toward third base. It doesn't have the PU trailing the BR to first should U1 chase a trouble ball. Go figure...

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by CecilOne

In non-NCAA softball, U3 has to cover the BR when U1 chases with no runners on.

It is a pretty basic concept, actually. Hard to understand why some might have issues grasping it. If/when U1 goes out, and you revert to two umpire mechanics, which remaining umpire is now the base umpire?

As a plate umpire in that system, I would read if my U3 got a bad jump, or appeared unlikely to get in a good calling position; I might communicate a deviation on that play.