Umpire Positioning on Passed Balls with runner at 3rd?

[rhanna]

What are the appropriate positioning mechanics for the HPU on a passed ball (straight back to the backstop) with a runner coming home?  Does it change based on whether the ball might go to the left or right?  Are there any considerations for the catcher attempting to make a play?  Thanks.

[LC Ump]

I've been taught to drop step and "open the gate" for the catcher to side he goes to retrieve the ball, just like you would on a foul pop.

Keep the "gate" open and hold on to the point of plate while checking the status of the ball to make sure it hasn't gotten lodged or gone out of play.

If the ball ends up right or left of the side of your initial step, you can take another drop step to get square to where the catcher's throw will be coming from but otherwise hold on to the point of plate 

From there you should be out of the catcher's throwing lane and able to track the fielder covering the plate (most likely the pitcher). As the throw happens use whatever read steps needed to get yourself into the "wedge" and your eyes into the "window" to make the call.

[Richvee]

LC Ump has given you the correct advice. Biggest priorities

Clear the catcher

Follow the ball

adjust for a play, and make sure you're out of the throwing lane. 

[TheLovejoy]

  Just to add a little to the back end of what they are getting at above: There are two 'wedge' positions to every tag play. Usually when a ball is coming from the outfield and you have a play at the plate, you're on the catchers hip catching that back-end wedge. 
  However, there is also the wedge angle where the ball is coming from. It's usually tighter, and can be obscured a little with some movement from the runner and/or the catcher. Think of the similar position you're in at B, on a steal of 2nd base. You're catching that inner portion of the field with the ball coming in 'over your shoulder', or from behind you while you try to get in position. You have to clear that throwing lane. Same thing.
  I was taught this is the same position. Catcher making the throw from 'behind' you type of area, and you are catching the inner half of the wedge. This is just easier, because the pitcher is coming from the middle of the field.
  As I called more games, I realized it's the EXACT same position, as working from the outside of 2b in a 4 man with a runner on 1st. (Now, I prefer to work that 4 man spot from the outside with a runner on 1st any chance I can get). In theory, it should be much easier to see the play than a throw from the outfield.