Trust and Read
As a first base umpire, working in a two-man team with the plate umpire, collaborating and exercising trust is essential. This is the beginning of covering all scenarios adequately. When there isn’t anyone on base, there are situations where knowing and trusting your partners’ moves becomes crucial. To ensure a smooth execution when this happens, it’s best to pre-game these moves.
When there’s a pop-up close to the infield on the right side of the field, what happens? It is highly advisable that the base umpire (U1) come inside and defer the catch/no-catch or fair/foul decision to the PU. However, when the pop-up goes over U1’s head, ideally U1 quickly establishes eye contact with the PU and conveys his intentions so that the PU can make an immediate adjustment.
U1 Stays Out for Catch/No Catch or Fair/Foul
Ultimately the Plate Umpires responsibility is to moved down the 1B line and read their partner. If U1 turns their back completely on the PU, read that as U1 covering the pop fly. The Plate Umpire should take over responsibilities any play at either first or second. The initial read by PU of U1 staying home prompts a reroute by PU. This reroute abandons 1B line and begins to wander towards second base. If the pop fly is caught or foul, the Plate Umpire returns home without advancing to 2B. When dropped, the Plate Umpire will be in a position to advance to 2B and beat the BR there for the potential play.
When the unplanned happens, the PU stays in the field. U1 retreats back to the plate to cover any potential play there. PU is now responsible for covering all bases. Remember that this scenario is for no one on base.
U1 Pivots Into Infield
This particular strategy comes in handy when a misfielded or booted ball transpires. When U1 moves to the inside, they can cover both first and second base. The batter-runner (BR) is prompted to either proceed to second base or return to first after the ball is regained. By pushing into the middle of the field, U1 can then competently deal with an instance back into 1B or an advance to 2B. This reduces effort and running required by the Plate Umpire allowing them to stay on the line and adjudicate the catch/no catch or fair/foul call.
Being prepared to communicate and move is always imperative. Make this discussion one of your consistent pre-game conversations. It is guaranteed to keep you out of trouble.
