NCAA Mechanics Question

[Andy]

Originally Posted by Manny A

And I've been told otherwise in clinics. I don't understand why.

In baseball, when a base umpire isn't sure of the pulled foot/swipe tag at first base, the practice is to go to the partner first for help, and then make the call after the partner gives his/her input. That's not the case in softball as I've learned. We are to make the call we believe we see, and then go for help if asked. I never understood why the difference.

So, are you saying we should ask for help before making a call?

I was also taught as a softball umpire when I started to go for help if needed prior to making the call.

I have since been told the opposite....Too many things can happen if you go for help first.

What if the play happens at first and before you (BU) make a call, you go to your partner and....

...Your partner has already moved to third for a potential play?
...Your partner was watching the runner on second and F6 collide?
...Your partner just went brain dead and wasn't even looking at first base?
...Your partner is a rookie that still isn't sure of their responsibilities on a play like this?

etc....etc....etc.

It's your call at the base. Make it using all the information you have available. Go for help if needed.