In Focus
Strike Zone
Strike zone accuracy continues to be a focus point of the SUP. Every umpire at every level needs to adhere to the strike zone that is described in the current rule book.
Discussion among coordinators has designated that this is one area that coaches have noted a lack of consistency. Umpires need to develop a method of tracking pitches. Using any one of the approved stances and utilizing preseason scrimmages, we must work to achieve accuracy.
The strike zone by definition is the area above home plate between the bottom of the batter’s sternum and the top of her knees when she assumes her natural batting stance. The top of the ball must be on or within the horizontal plane, and either side of the ball must be on or within the vertical plane of the strike zone to be called a strike unless the ball touches the ground before reaching home plate. (Rule 11.3.1)
The diagrams in the 2014 and 2015 Softball Rules and Interpretation book are excellent guides to call an accurate zone. The first diagram details the view of the strike zone from above home plate and the second one details the strike zone from behind home plate. Both are designed to aid in the accuracy for calling balls and strikes. Pitches that are clearly out of the strike zone touching the batters box need to be called accurately. If the pitch touches any part over the plane of home plate and meets the height criteria, it is a strike. Umpires are encouraged to use these visual aids when working to develop an accurate strike zone.
When working the plate, use a stance that is balanced, one that allows you to drop to a solid set position to see the entire zone. You may use the Box Stance, Gerry Davis, Modified Gerry Davis or Heel/Toe. You need to be in the slot with your eyes positioned at the top of the zone and your head no lower than the catcher’s head. This should be your starting position in order to see the pitch and adjust only when a batter is legally crowding the plate and/or the catcher is legally setting up inside. This is a situational mechanic, not a starting position for every batter. You need to be set when the pitch is released and if you need to, adjust your position for a better view. Track the pitch using only a slight head movement; do not indicate pitch location with your body. Accountability to call an accurate and consistent zone rests with each umpire at every level of softball.
Chasing Fly Balls
Chasing fly balls continues to be a concern for the SUP. Too many fly balls or line drives to the outfield that need a base umpire to chase are not being chased, which makes it a difficult call for the plate umpire. Discuss chase responsibilities in your pre-game and always expect to chase. Players are faster, willing to dive at the last moment to attempt a catch. They play an aggressive defense and umpires need to read and react. Remember that it is better to chase than not chase.
Game Management
Q: When does game management start? A: It starts when you walk onto the field. As a crew, you walk the field to check the field and determine ground rules. It then continues with bat check, which is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Bats have to be checked before every game, even if it is a double header.
Q: During the game how do you handle a coach that questions your strike zone? A: Address the situation. As the plate umpire, you need to decide if the comment from the coach is a one-time situation or is it a continuous banter. If it is a one-time situation you might want to ignore the comment but be aware that if the comments continue you will address the situation. If the comments are loud and non-stop, you need to take action and address it. Rule 13.1 Misconduct addresses the issue of a coach questioning a plate umpire’s strike zone. The plate umpire should issue a warning on the first occurrence of a coach arguing balls and strikes. Continual violations may warrant a behavioral ejection.
Q: When is it appropriate to go for help on a call? A: By rule checked swing. Umpires must go for help on a checked swing. It is appropriate to go for help anytime you feel you may have missed a piece of information to make an accurate call.
Q: What are some common sense game management situations? A: Time between pitches and a batter asking for time. As the plate umpire you need to be aware of the flow of the game. Two rules were put in place to stop the cat and mouse game between the pitcher and batter. If the pitcher or batter asks for time, do not grant time if you decide the request is the result of a cat and mouse game. But, if they ask for time because they did not see or understand the signals, then use common sense and grant time.
Q: What are some of the difficult situations that may arise during a game? A: Inference, obstruction, illegal pitches and sportsmanship. All umpires must pre-pitch prepare to be ready for any situation that may arise during the game. Be aware of the position of each fielder and each base runner. Use strong signals. If a coach asks a question listen to what is asked and respond to the question. Be aware of any conflicts that may arise and step in to resolve the issue, if possible, before it escalates. If you warn a coach or player inform your partners of the warning. The plate umpire is responsible for writing the warning on the line-up card.