Who has the call?

[jpperez14]

Rangers vs Mariners

 

Runner on 1st and 2nd.

 

U3 of course is in 'D' and U2 is in 'C'

 

Ground ball to 3rd base, 3rd baseman attempts to tag R2, then throws across to retire the BR.

 

U2 pointed and seemed to signal out on the tag but, then I see U3 point and call R2 out.

 

My question is it U2's call or U3's call?

[noumpere]

Depends on where the tag was made and either can get it.

[24sdad]

Like posted above, which umpire is "facing" the tag?  i.e. - R2 running to third and he is tagged in the back, U2 will be facing the tag and U3 will probably be blocked from seeing the tag by R2's body.  However, on a play such as this where two umpires could have the tag/call, this is where it is important to slow down and communicate with your partner prior to any call.  R2 is running by F6 and F6 reaches out to tag him on the shoulder.  Both umpires see the tag attempt.  Prior to any call, make eye contact with your partner to eliminate a double, and possibly conflicting, call.  One umpire should tap his chest (or just say "I got it" or whatever you pre-game) indicating he saw it and has it, then make the call.

[mstaylor]

Without seeing it, it is possible that U2 called the out because it was on the runner's back, U3 mirrored the out to show the runner he was out.