Helpful Hints for Field Umpires (eng)

  • HUSTLE
  • Proper TIMING is essential! Don’t make a call until the catch or play is completed.
  • Be ready on every pitch and every play. Before a pitch, know the possible play that might occur after the pitch.
  • Watch for illegal pitches. Move on all pitched, batted and thrown balls.
  • Be alert for check-swings or hit batsman.
  • Never step backwards on any call (this looks like: I’m not sure on the call and puts more distance between you and the play).
  • Make your calls standing straight up, to make clear to everyone what your decision is.
  • Call all your plays in fair territory except when the play dictates for you to be in foul territory.
  • Watch the ball and glance at the runners.
  • Don’t let players or coaches call plays for you.
  • Check to make certain the bases is secured and keeps the pitcher’s rubber clean.
  • Do not make a big call on obvious out, safe, fair or foul calls. Make your close calls with a lot of voice and enthusiasm.
  • A «safe» signal or verbal call is not necessary when the thrown ball gets by the defensive player.
  • Do not help or console an injured player; if someone is hurt, walk away and let the manager handle it.
  • Line-up runners on all fly balls to the outfield, if possible, as outlined in tag up procedures.
  • Slow up runners when the ball becomes dead because of fouls, etc.
  • Keep the game moving.
  • Never walk from one position to another. Hustle and the ball players will follow your example.
  • On rundowns, the responsibility of the call is determined by the direction the runner is running towards.
    Softball –> One umpire should be inside the infield the other outside the infield to cover the rundown properly.
    Baseball –> Both umpires are on the same side of the infield.
  • Avoid to touch balls thrown to you by the defensive team, as there may not be three outs.