With the coming of a new softball season it is important that as an umpiring association we maintain a standard set of mechanics. Below is a guideline to follow to help us develop consistency in our association.

It is important to verbally call pitches that are balls, pitches that roll across the plate or are obviously out of the strike zone need not be verbalized. The only ball call that should be followed by a number is ball four. Remember a loud ball four call, particularly with moving baserunners might prevent an injury.

Swinging strikes including strike three must not be verbalized. Only a called third strike should be followed by a number. The level of play and situation should be considered in the manner you call someone out on strikes. Know the foul tip rule and remember not to verbalize the call, as it is essentially the same as a swing and a miss.

In two man games it is not permissible to ask for help on a check swing you call a strike. Only grant a request for help on check swings if you call the pitch a ball.

On sharply hit balls down either foul line do not try to take your mask off. Sell the call with a loud verbal foul call while giving the dead ball signal of both hands over your head. On fair balls remember not to verbalize, a good firm point towards fair territory while watching the ball is the proper mechanic.

On lofted foul balls take your mask off and move up the line to get in good position to make the call. Remember your first priority is fair or foul and then if the ball is caught or not.

Lastly, on slowly hit balls up the first or third base lines, hold your foul call until the ball either touches or is touched by someone in foul territory.

The keys to consistent calls are positioning and hustle. Most players and coaches will accept a call if you are in position to make it; nothing angers coaches more than a lack of hustle.

On balls hit to the infield take your mask off and move out from behind the plate to the left of the catcher, keep your eye on the ball as no calls can be made without it. This is especially important with runners on base, as you never know where the ball will be thrown.

On balls hit to the outfield anticipate where the play might be, for example with runners on first and third with less than two outs a long fly to center is much more likely to be thrown to second than home. Remember anticipate the play not the call.

Be professional, be punctual, be respectful, be in uniform, know the rules and above all have fun.

Have a great year!

John

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