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alot of the time the catchers set up on the inside, and the batters are on top of the plate, we are taught to see the pitch coming out of the pitchers hand, if your really in the slot on these times your not gonna see it, so to fix it you need to get back and work up. and yes you will be over the catchers head. it happens. this is when you really rely on where the catcher catches the ball.

Hello all I have been fortunate enough to be one of those who participated in the developmental group with regard to the CPU 4000 by All-Star. I have been impressed by the quality of the dialogue and the quantity of the feedback offered by the group. Kudos to Brad Jurga and the All-Star gang for being open to the input of such a group. Theconsensus among the group seems to be that the CPU 4000 has integrated of someof the better features of some of the main brands, Wilson, Douglas, etc. and of course included All-Stars own features such as the Delta Flex Harness and System Seven padding. I've worn the CP throughout the summer season, and I'm pleased to report that it is working extremely well. It is light, fits me perfectly, and is extremely quick and easy to put on. The chest protector is easily the best fitting and most comfortable CP that I've worn. The buckle style straps are easy to manage, and, with the Delta Flex harness, the slippage problem commonly found in some other brands is virtually nonexistent. It features excellent protection in the shoulder and chest area, and, as a result of the secure, slip-free fit, the CPU 4000 offers great neckand collarbone coverage. In addition, the side flaps, while their value may be questionable to some, work well and seem quite comfortable for me, and, best of all do not hinder movement or require constant re-adjusting. Note that my comments on the side flaps refer to the prototype model and this feature was slated for further improvement prior to the release of the production models. A big contributor to the fit factor is the inclusion of the same System Seven padding that All Star uses on their MVP line of helmets. The padding is both comfortable and moisture wicking. As in the MVP line, the padding on the CPU4000 is removable, washable,and replaceable. I assume replacement padding will be available at some point in the future. In the final analysis, while perhaps not as bullet proof as the Wilson Gold, the outstanding fit and comfort of the CPU 4000 combined with the light weight, moisture management,and a lower profile makes this CP a winner all the way around. As of this writing the CPU4000 has replaced my Wilson CPsas my #1 rig. RE: Masks I am also at this point using the FM2000 ump as my #1 mask. It is lightweight, and, has an excellent view window. I have modified the set up with the addition of Team Wendy pads rather than the standard LUC pads. The support bars below the view window, designed to create double bar strength in a single bar mask, create a little clutter below the main view window, but not enough to hinder the view in any meaningful way. This issue has been addressed in the design of the new FM4000. I agree with Chris Hickman’s observation that the All-Star designs look somewhat like something that Belgard or Mizuno might design. As someone who has been tempted by the Japanese mask designs, and, who actually likes the spider style throat guard, (yes, I know, I’m a gear ho….) but has been put off by the lack of availability, the All-Star models offer a high quality, economical, and domestically available option.