CHAPTER 4 UMPIRING THE BASES

UMPIRING THE BASES

The same as working the plate, remember, PAUSE, READ and REACT!! on every play.

Before calling any play it is absolutely necessary for you to stop and get set. Do this before the play happens. Never call a play when you are running to get into position, stop and get set, this way your eyes will not be moving and you will take a better picture of the play.

In getting set, bend at the knees and hips. Try to keep your upper body straight from the waist up. If you will put your hands on your knees it will help maintain balance as well as lock you into position. it possible, you should start all your calls this set position. As you make the out signal, it is wise to keep the left arm crossed in front of your body. If your left arm comes out away from the body it looks like you are calling the runner out with your right and safe with your left.

As the game begins, the base umpire should hustle from the home plate area down the first base line to his between innings position. The between innings position is down the first baseline in the outfield grass in foul territory. If there are spectators down the line, it is wise for the umpire to go into fair territory to stand rather than remain close to the fence. All umpires should avoid visiting with anyone between innings unless there is a problem between umpires which needs attention.

In getting into position at first base with no runners on base, the umpire should be about ten to fifteen feet behind the first baseman. Never allow the fielder to stand behind you. Another important point is on every pitch take one or two steps forward. This will put you in motion to bounce out into the infield dirt for your calls at first. when positioning yourself before the play, place your hands on your knees, thumbs on the inside, locked in to the set position; or let your arms hang loose at your sides. Do not fold your arms on your chest as this makes you look like you are loafing or bored.

When the ball is hit to the infield, the umpire should assume a position to first base and then to the fielder making the throw, a right angle (90 degree) would be formed. Don't be lazy; hustle out there, maintain your original distance away from the base so you will have a good view of the fielder reaching for a high throw. If the ball is hit to the third baseman, run toward him until you have your angle. Do the same toward shortstop. When a ball is hit to the second baseman's right, move into fair territory so the angle will be as close to ninety degrees as possible. If the ball is hit to the second baseman's left or the first baseman, you will be in foul territory. Be sure to stay out of the runner's path even though it means distorting the angle slightly. Be sure to get set to call the play. Very important as you move to your position and get set, (keep your eyes on the ball)keep watching as the fielder throws the ball. Be sure to judge the quality of the throw. Take your eyes from the ball as it passes the mound and focus your attention on the base. Watch the runner tag the bag and the fielder's foot to make sure he keeps contact. Listen for the sound of the ball as it hits the first baseman's glove. Remember, you judge the runner safe or out when the first baseman has secure possession not when the ball first reaches him when he makes a juggled catch. To prevent calling the play to quickly, you must remember to use your eyes properly. After the play is complete, pause(develop the picture of the play), then call it. Practice will aid you in adapting and keeping the proper time interval between the play and the call. If the throw goes through the first baseman, don't make a call as there is not play to be called.