when working in the slot.....?

[wendal]

when working in the slot, and the catcher sets up in an extreme inside position, thus blocking out the plate, what do YOU do? i am hoping to hear some good advice. thanks.

[yawetag]

Step back and set higher. There's not much else you can do.

[UmpJM]

I concur,

Up and back - but not that much.

It was counterintuitive to me, but I find it works.

JM

[mazzamouth]

Step back and set higher. There's not much else you can do.

+1 and read/watch the catchers glove for help.

[Mike Prince]

I also make sure I can get in a position to see the ball out of the pitcher's hand too. That helps a bunch. But the key is to move up and back.

[JaxRolo]

I agree with all the above. Do the best to see the plate. Never go to the outside the catcher. If you can't see the ball crossing the plate then you have to call it a "ball"

[mstaylor]

Back and up absolutely, if he blocks you off and you really can't tell, ball it. I did that a couple of weeks ago in a men's wooden bat league. The pitch came in and it was close on the bottom so I balled it. The catcher what was wrong with it and I told I didn't see it. I told him when he comes that far inside I can't see and it will be a ball. He said he understood but just so I know it was beautiful. I told him I had no doubt but I had to see it too. That was the last time it happened.

[Umpire in Chief]

Up & back is the way to go, but talking to the catcher also helps. Generally they will be more than happy to help.

[persong]

How about when a Batter is so close to the plate you can't see the pitcher delivery? Do you stay in a good spot and just see it when you can or move towards the middle of the plate in the (danger zone). :shrug:

[yawetag]

Stick your ground and err on calling a strike.

[grayhawk]

How about when a Batter is so close to the plate you can't see the pitcher delivery? Do you stay in a good spot and just see it when you can or move towards the middle of the plate in the (danger zone).

That happens a lot, especially when those batters get their hands out in front of them. I just stay put and get the best view I can. Moving back over the plate is something that I try to avoid.

[BillB1960]

How about when a Batter is so close to the plate you can't see the pitcher delivery? Do you stay in a good spot and just see it when you can or move towards the middle of the plate in the (danger zone).

Yep...happens a lot. Then the ball explodes out of nowhere and I really don't like that. I tend to drift just a touch towards the middle but never past point of plate, just far enough to pickup the pitcher's hands. It's more of a lean than anything else. I find it happens mostly with taller batters who like to lean way out over the plate.