Tips for Conducting an Effective Pregame Plate Conference
One of the age-old nuances unique to baseball and softball is the pregame gathering between opposing team managers and umpires at home plate. This conference is designed to be brief,…
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Description of the “Basic Six” Field Mechanics
The Basic Six are mechanics primarily used by a base umpire while in the “A” position. Each mechanic is specific and builds on the single action of calling a runner…
Defining Interference and Obstruction
The terms interference and obstruction are often misunderstood and confused by managers, coaches, and umpires alike. Using the current edition of “Make the Right Call: The Casebook of Little League…
The B Position – Runner on First Base
The "B Position – Runner on First Base" Mechanic is a drop-step movement used by the Base Umpire when there is only a runner on first base and a ball…
Hey, Blue! – Is That a Catch, or Not!?
Let's explain and outline the criteria for an outfielder to make a catch to record an out. The situation described below is applicable in all divisions of Little League Baseball®…
Tips for District Administrators to Prepare Coaches for Tournament
The District Administrator (D.A.) typically serves as director of the district tournament within the Little League International Tournament. To efficiently and effectively organize, manage, and operate the district tournament, it is…
Hey, Blue! – How Is that a Foul Ball, and Not an Out?
This month, we will explain and outline a plate umpire’s parameters for declaring a ball foul when it is played by a corner infielder in Little League®. The situation described…
Hey, Blue! – The Runner Is Out of the Baseline
This month, we will explain and outline the rule governing interference when a batter-runner is contacted by a thrown ball outside of the runner’s lane. The situation described below is…
Use the Preseason to Review Little League® Rules
Regardless of whether spring comes in like a lion or a lamb, games are on the way. As players and teams prepare for the coming season, umpires also need to…
You Make the Call – When Is a Batted Ball Considered Foul?
Situation With a right-handed batter in the batter’s box and a count of three balls and one strike, the batter for the visiting team lines a pitch down the third-base…