The Umpire is "On The Ball" - October 2005

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Here are two tips that, properly followed, help to convince the teams and fans that the umpire is “on the ball.”

Signaling the Count
It is not necessary to signal the count after every pitch, but it’s a good idea to do it verbally because it cements the count in your mind, thus preventing the embarrassment of an enthusiastic third-strike call when in fact the pitch was strike two.

Regardless of the count, strikes are always indicated on the right hand, and balls are indicated on the left hand. A full count should be indicated by extending three fingers on the left hand and two on the right.

When using the hands to signal the count, give it verbally too. The batter and catcher can’t see your hands and need to know the count as well.

Finding the Ball
Slide plays often produce a great deal of dust, obscuring your view of the ball. In those cases, you must find it before making a call.

If the runner has beaten the tag, it doesn’t matter whether or not the defensive player has the ball and the runner should be called safe. If, however, you’re certain the tag was made first but the ball cannot be seen, point to the defensive player and say, “Show me the ball!”

If the defensive player has the ball in his/her possession, sell the out with an enthusiastic pump of the arm and a loud “OUT!” call.

If, as the dirt clears or the defensive player shows you an empty mitt, a confident and demonstrative safe call is appropriate.

Do not ask the defensive player to see the ball if you’re already sure the runner is safe. That conveys lack of confidence in your decision. You should only ask to see the ball if the tag was properly applied but you cannot see it in the defensive player’s glove.

Earlier this year, Andy Konyar (Little League International Umpire Consultant) was on the hot seat for “Ask Little League,” a new way for volunteers, fans and others to communicate with Little League officials and friends. Andy was able to answer inquiries from more than 160 people in 36 states and 10 other countries! 

Remember, umpires can get rule updates, interpretations, useful tips like these and much more, by signing up for the Little League Umpire Registry. Click here for more details.