Never heard this before...

[alan2703]

I use a reference point on the catcher for the high point of my zone if batter squats down and passes in that reference point I ring it up if batter says something I tell him don't squat down when pitch is coming in.

Here are two more for your book both at adult league game.

1. What is your strike zone, answer the strike zone

2. Why do you have to put the ball in play I had picked the runner off first

[catsbackr]

If there is any way possible, I'm calling a strike on a batter who suddenly become 2 ft tall. And if a coach complains, I'll happily tell him "when he squats and tries to take away his strike zone, it's a strike every time."

Think this, do this, don't say this!

[Umpirechick1]

Think it, say it, and explain it. Coaches like an explanation.

[ZebraStripes]

If there is any way possible, I'm calling a strike on a batter who suddenly become 2 ft tall. And if a coach complains, I'll happily tell him "when he squats and tries to take away his strike zone, it's a strike every time."

One of the coaches last night was fussing that I was inconsistent on the high pitches.  I setup on his stance and then as the pitch comes in half of his batters shrank their zone by as much as 6 inches.  Ball at my eyes and over the plate....strike!!!!

 

I also had a 13 year old that I didn't even have to squat to get my head at the top of his strike zone....13 and 6'5"  I was 4'9" at 13.

[Majordave]

Think it, say it, and explain it. Coaches like an explanation.

Most of them are just looking for you to say something they can use against you later if possible. Best explanations are very short. In my judgment I had that .....(for judgment calls). Coach by rule the batter can/cannot......(for rule enforcement calls). NOT a real conversation? No detailed explanations. NEVER a demonstration of what was wrong, by you OR him. After the game, if you're so inclined, explain away. Just remember that all they really want to do is win and co-opt your judgment and authority to help them do that. Sorry to bust your bubble. You are just dealing with rookie coaches or wolves in sheep's clothing if they act like they truly appreciate your explanations and accept them. Some are persuaders by profession or experience.

Trust me. The less said the better.

[afaber12]

"Coach, the height of the zone is based on the batter's stance when he's prepared to swing at the pitch, not when he squats down like that. In my judgement the pitch was a strike. Now let's go."

[Virginiabum]

Last night, I'm working 9-10 SB.  Ball four - R2 steals third.  As runner is troting to first, I hear a parent say, "Wow. I guess you can steal bases on a walk here."    

[kylehutson]

Last night, I'm working 9-10 SB.  Ball four - R2 steals third.  As runner is troting to first, I hear a parent say, "Wow. I guess you can steal bases on a walk here."    

I've never had any problem with the fans that heckle. But the ones that try to explain rules and do it *wrong* just chap my hide. They're not doing anybody any favors there. Those are the ones that have me chewing on my tongue.