softball umpires manual

SOFTBALLUMPIRESMANUAL

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Published byAlabama High School Athletic Association

Additional Copies Available atAlabama High School Athletic Association

$10.00 per copy

Printed in Montgomery, Alabamaby Walker360une, 2016


CONTENTS

AHSAA Code of Ethics ........................................................... 5

Prerequisites for Good Umpiring........................................... 6

Pre and Post Game Responsibilities..................................... 8

Plate Mechanics.......................................................................11

Base Mechanics.......................................................................16

Difficult Situations...................................................................24

AHSAA Softball Umpires Signals ..........................................27

Diagrams & Mechanics ...........................................................41

Spectator Management Policy ...............................................62


AHSAA Officials’ Code of Ethics

This Code of Ethics for all officials has been established by the NationalFederation Interscholastic Officials Association. The purpose of the Code isto establish guidelines for ethical standards of conduct for all officials.

1. An official must devote time, thought and study to the rules of thegame and the mechanics necessary to carry out these rules so thatone may render effective and creditable services in a fair and unbi-ased manner.

2. An official must work with fellow officials and the state associationin a spirit of harmony and cooperation in spite of differences ofopinion that may arise during debate of points or rules at issue.

3. An official must resist every temptation and outside pressure to useone’s position as an official to benefit oneself. Underl all circum-stances, officials must avoid promoting the special interest of anyperson or group of persons other than the athletes we serve.

4. An official must constantly uphold the honor and dignity of the avo-cation in all personal conduct and relations with the student-ath-letes, coaches, athletic directors, school administrators, colleaguesand the public to be a worthy example to the athletes under one’sjurisdiction.

5. An official will be prepared both physically and mentally, dressaccording to expectations and maintain a proper appearance that isbefitting the importance of the contest.

6. An official must remember and recognize that it is important to hon-or contracts regardless of possible inconvenience or financial loss.

Every member of the officiating profession carries a responsibility toact in a manner becoming a professional person. The conduct of any offi-cial influences the attitude of the public toward the profession in generalas well as toward the official in particular.

Officials may be reprimanded, fined and/or suspended for any conductunbecoming of an official registered with the AHSAA. The code of Ethicsfalls into this category.

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Prerequisites for Good Umpiring

PRE-REQUISITES FOR GOOD UMPIRINGSuccessful umpires possess certain common qualities. They include: • A thorough knowledge of the rules• Effective communication skills: both verbal and listening• Effective game management, self control, and a current knowledge of AHSAA

softball mechanics.

In short, there is no substitute for game experience. The quality of judgmentis only achieved through lessons learned in game situations.

The game of softball demands hustle at all times by every umpire. The athleteswho play the game of softball work hard on conditioning to perform at a peak lev-el. Umpires should also! Successful umpires have to achieve physical fitness pri-or to the start of the season to be able to move at the game’s speed. Rules studyand experience won’t cover up for an umpire that is out of position because theyare not fit enough to match the movement of the players.

ELEMENTS OF A SUCCESSFUL UMPIRE:• Professional Appearance – a clean, pressed AHSAA uniform with shoes

shined, official AHSAA cap, ball bags, indicator, plate brush and appropriateprotective equipment for the game being played. A professional appearanceshould be a habit you never break.

• Communications:• Always be business-like and professional when communicating with any-

one about the game.• Support your crew throughout the entire game. If an information request

comes from your partner stick to the facts and give only the informationrequested.

• When having a discussion with a coach demonstrate good listening skillsand answer the question directly using the language from the rulebook.

• Verbalize loud enough for your partners to hear you when rotating to cov-er plays. Communication only works when it is acknowledged, thereforerespond to your partner so that they know that they have been heard.



• Conditioning: Maintaining a good level of fitness not only helps anumpire’s movement , but also improves their ability to maintain focusthroughout the game.

• Game Management: Comes from leading by example. If you want playersto hustle on and off the field you should hustle to your next position at theend of the inning. Use preventive umpire techniques to handle little problemssuch equipment left on the field or players badgering. ”Nip it” early and avoidproblems later.

• Judgment: Can be best described in the saying, “umpire judgment is main-ly experience, salted with cool headed common sense.”It takes years todevelop good judgment. Umpires earn the respect of players by the way werender decisions. Umpire should keep a tight rein on their temperament andremember that no provocation, not even a physical attack, should cause anumpire to lose sight of their primary responsibility-keeping the game undercontrol. The players will relax and trust the good judgment of the umpire ifthe call makes sense. Calls that don’t make sense put players on edge and arecauses to question. To develop good judgment umpires should take time tolearn common sense application of the rules during game situations.

• Mechanics: They are the backbone of umpiring. The AHSAA Umpire Staffspends a large amount of time developing effective mechanics designed togive every umpire the best opportunity to judge each play. Plate mechanicsbegin with calling balls and strikes and end with the required movement byan umpire to complete other duties. This includes the element of stance, theset position, calling the pitch and movement from the plate when required.Base mechanics begin with the fundamentals of positioning, followed by tim-ing, judgment, signals and a verbal call. Umpires should work on improvingtheir mechanics during every game.

• Positioning: Equals credibility. Every umpire must be a” student of thegame” to prepare for every situation that may occur during a game. Suc-cessful umpiring requires complete concentration, full energies and undi-vided attention from the first pitch to the last out of each game. A currentknowledge of AHSAA mechanics will place you in the proper position toumpire each play successfully.

• Rule Knowledge: Is essential for successful umpiring. To develop a com-plete knowledge of the rules each umpire should study their rulebook regu-larly, attend state and district camps as well as the AHSAA State Umpire Camp



in July. Umpires that are committed to becoming the very best will do this toimprove.

• Timing: Is essential for believable umpiring. A call made before the umpirehas seen the “whole play “can be a mistake. A call made after an extendeddelay is often viewed as a lack of confidence in the call by the umpire. Callsmade too quick or too late have the same effect on ball players…… NOTBELIEVABLE! Good timing is equally important on the bases and at the plate.A successful umpire will allow themselves to see the whole pitch or the wholeplay, then after a slight hesitation, make the call.

PRE AND POST GAME RESPONSIBILITIES

The Pre-Game preparation should begin when you receive your assignment.Record your assignment in your date book and then make sure to contact yourpartner or partners well in advance of the scheduled game.

Arrive at the site 60 minutes prior to the starting time and inform the hometeam coach that you have arrived.

Review the ground rules with the home coach, the find where the game ballsand scorekeepers will be located.

PRE-GAME WITH PARTNER(S)

The purpose of the meeting is to get umpire crew on the “same page” for thegame. The plate umpire should conduct the conference and encourage therecrew members to participate. Do not use this conference to deviate from mechan-ics in this manual.

The Pre-Game conference should include the following topics:A. New RulesB. Fly Ball CoverageC. Tag ResponsibilitiesD. Umpire To Umpire SignalsE. Requesting help from your partner.

1. Check Swing2. Appeal to wrong umpire3. Request for information

NOTE: The umpire responsible for the call asks their partner for information


Pre and Post Game Responsibilities

and announces the decision after the conference is concluded.F. Special Rules

1. Time Limit2. Run-Ahead Rule3. Tiebreaker procedure

G. Managing Umpire to Coach discussions and ejections1. Partners should insure discussion is “one on one”2. Partners take control of removing ejected players

H. Special situations or team specific tendencies including1. Team Speed2. Bunting and Slapping3. Is it a rivalry game?4. Is there “bad blood” between these two teams?

I. Entering and exiting the field1. Always enter together2. Exit together on side of “least resistance”

UMPIRE CREW ENTERING THE F IELD

The umpire crew should perform these specific duties upon entering the field ofplay and prior to the pre-game coaches’ conference.

A. Inspect the field/walk the perimeter of the field1. Look for any holes in the fence or specific problems2. Check for any hazards that may create a dead ball situation3. Insure the field is properly marked and the bases and pitching

plate are set at the proper distance.B. Inspecting Equipment

1. Inspect all equipment together2. Communicate how illegal or removed equipment will be

handled


PRE-GAME CONFERENCE WITH COACHES

Keep the Pre-Game Coaches’ Conference short, but informative. Have a defi-nite agenda prepared as this is not a rules clinic. Use the following outline:

A. Umpires should take proper positions as follows:1. The plate umpire stands behind home plate facing the pitcher’s

plate.2. In the two-umpire system, the base umpire faces home plate and

the plate umpires faces the base umpire, with coaches on theright and left of home plate.

3. In the three-umpire system, the first base umpire faces the plateumpire on the first base side and the third base umpire faces theplate umpire on the third base side. Both should have theirbacks toward the pitcher’s plate.

B. Plate umpire conducts meetingC. Plate umpire should introduce himself and other umpires. Then have

the coaches introduce themselves.D. Plate umpire receives the line-up from each coach.

1. Inspects for proper number of players in the starting line-up2. Inspects for proper information, by rule3. Returns line-up to coaches for final check4. Accepts as “official” when line-ups are returned to plate umpire

E. Review Ground Rules1. Keep ball in play as much as possible2. Inspect for proper information, by rule3. When out of play lines are not visible, use “permanent objects”

to determine whether a ball is in or out of play.F. Coin toss, if needed to determine home teamG. WHEN THE CONFERENCE IS OVER,THE UMPIRES SHOULD HUSTLE

TO THEIR RESPECTIVE POSITIONS TO START THE GAME!




END OF THE GAME PROCEDURE

A. Leave the field together as a team and on the side of least resistancewhile giving the defensive team responsible time for an appeal.Appeals are not permitted after the umpires leave the field.

B. Go directly to your dressing area, but don’t run. Avoid any conversa-tions with players or fans.

C. The plate umpire should return game balls to the administrator if present.

D. Know your departure route before the game ends and where you wantto end up.

F. Have no conservation with fans or participants. If confronted, bepolite and excuse yourself to get ready for your assignment.

POST GAME WITH PARTNERS

A. Find a secluded placeB. Plate umpire initiates open discussion over unusual situations that

occurred in that game. Each umpire is encouraged to participate. C. Discuss pertinent rule and mechanic situations that happened in the

game. Could anything have been done differently? D. Self evaluate!E. Be honest giving and receiving constructive advice.

ALWAYS REMEMBER, AN UMPIRE IS EXPECTED TO BE PERFECT THEIRFIRST GAME AND IMPROVE EACH GAME THEREAFTER!!!

PLATE MECHANICS

Plate mechanics begin with calling balls and strikes and end with any requiredmovement by the umpire to complete other duties. This includes the elements ofthe stance, the set position, the pitch and movement from the plate whenrequired.

A plate umpire who keeps these elements in perspective has a better chanceof having a solid game behind the plate. Attention to detail in these areas willmake you a better plate umpire. Let’s examine these elements one by one.


Plate Mechanics

CALL ING THE PITCH IN FAST PITCH:

Stance: The stance is the foundation of good plate mechanics. The elementsof a good stance are as follows: • First, the umpire must set their feet with the heel of the foot closest to the

batter in a straight line with the toe of the foot closest to the catcher. Dothis by setting your foot behind the catcher and squaring your shouldersto the plate. Then bring in your foot behind the batter so your feet are inheel toe alignment. Both feet should be turned slightly outward so yourknees are over your toes. On a right handed batter set your right foot first,then your right foot. This will provide the same stance on both a left hand-ed batter and a right handed batter. Your feet should be at least shoulderwidth apart, if comfortable, keeping in mind you will have to move whenneeded.

• Second, make sure you are not too close or too far from the catcher.Remember this rule of thumb: you must see the entire plate and then theball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’s glove or the ground as it pass-es through or out of the strike zone.

• Third, rotating your head and eyes toward the pitcher will assist you inseeing the ball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’s glove or theground.

• Fourth, be sure to bend at the knees, not at the waist. This allows yourback to be as straight as possible with a slight tilt forward to bring yourhead into the proper position. This will reduce the pressure on your low-er back and the top of your legs.

Set Position: The plate umpire assumes the set position to call balls andstrikes. To be in a good set position the plate umpire should follow theseguidelines: • The umpire must start in the slot. The slot is defined as the position the

umpire assumes prior to going set in which they are behind the catcher,slightly inside the inside corner of the plate and outside the perimeter ofthe strike zone.

• You must have Good Pelvic Alignment, referred to as GPA. This position isachieved when the umpire has his pelvic aligned with outside corner ofthe plate. This allows you to look down and through the strike zone.


• In fast pitch set no lower than the top of the strike zone in relation to thebatter. Your body should be locked in a stationary position to see the ballreleased from the pitcher’s and travel all the way to the catcher’s glove orthe ground. Your hands should be placed in a comfortable position infront of your body.

• Go set at the start of the pitch. The pitcher starts with both hands gotogether; when one hand is taken off the ball the pitch is started. Eachpitcher is different and the time you go set can vary accordingly.

The Pitch: Calling the pitch is where a plate umpire puts the stance and setposition to work. To call the pitch, the plate umpire should follow theseguidelines: • To start the game or any time after the umpire has prevented a pitch from

being delivered, the umpire should direct the pitcher to play ball. Whenholding up play, simply hold up the hand opposite the batter with youpalm facing the pitcher. When you are ready for the pitch, point at thepitcher and say “play” or “play ball.” At this point, it is imperative that theumpire pick up with their eyes while the ball is in the pitcher’s hand.

• The umpire then tracks the ball from the pitcher’s hand to the catcher’sglove or to the ground. Tracking the ball is the act of watching the ballfrom the pitcher’s hand into the catcher’s glove using a slight movementof the head guided by the nose. Tracking is not an exaggerated head move-ment or just an eye movement. It is a movement of the nose which simul-taneously brings the head with the pitch as the eyes are locked on the ball.

• Good timing is crucial when calling the pitch. After the ball is in the glove,make sure you pause, and then call the pitch.

• The verbal call should always be made in the down position and the strikesignal in the up position.

• From the down, the strike call should be elongated and made briskly andloud. The umpire should then rise to an upright position with out movingtheir feet and bring the right arm in a 90 degree angle so the elbow canbe seen with the umpire’s peripheral vision. The fist should be closed withthe palm facing the umpire’s ear. A strong hammer adds certainty to youcall. Any swinging strike should be a signal only.

Plate Mechanics


Plate Mechanics

• A called strike three, both a strong verbal and signal should given. For fur-ther emphasis, verbalize the words “strike three”.

• Ball calls could be short and crisp and made in the down position. Vol-ume is fine where the infielders can hear it.

• On a foul tip the umpire should rise and brush the fingers of the righthand over the left hand, chest high in front of the body followed by thestrike signal.

• There are times when the count should be given by the plate umpire. Sig-naling the count is done by raising both hands above the head indicatingballs with consecutive fingers on the left hand and strikes with consecu-tive fingers on the right hand. Give both the number of balls and strikesevery time the count is given. Rotate the hands, not your body, so every-one can see the count.

• After each pitch step out, relax, reset and restart the process. This allowsthe umpire the time to refocus and reset for the next pitch.• Gerry Davis Stance – The square stance may be used as another plate

stance. The umpire square stance called “Gerry Davis Stance” hasumpire set up in the slot with hands on the knees with his eyes at thetop of the batter’s strike zone. Don’t set up too early, calling the pitchin the set position then coming out of the set position to give the strikesignal. Take a step back and relax to get ready for the next pitch.

MOVEMENT FROM THE PLATE

Movement: A good plate umpire realizes that they are not only required to callballs and strikes, but must be able to move to cover other responsibilities. Themust be ready and able to move during the game. Let’s examine the reasons formovement from the plate.

• First, the plate umpire should be ready to clear the catcher of any of thethree reasons: a passed ball, a foul fly behind the catcher or a droppedthird strike. The umpire dictates their movement by reading the shouldersof the catcher. On the right handed or left-handed batter, pivot and dropstep to allow the catcher to take you to the ball. Once you have cleared thecatcher, you must remember your other responsibilities, such as a possi-ble catch of the foul fly, help on a throw to 1B on the batter-runner or aplay at the plate.


Plate Mechanics

• Second, on a batted ball, the plate umpire should always exit to the left ofthe catcher to trail the batter-runner. Trail the batter-runner when thereare no runners or a single runner on 1st base, unless the play takes youelsewhere. Trail the batter-runner slightly inside the foul line approxi-mately one-third of the way to 1st base to help the base umpire with apulled foot, swiped tag or a bobbled ball. After trailing the batter-runnerto 1st base you may need to move to 3rd base or the holding zone. Whenmoving to 3rdbase move directly across the diamond in front of the pitch-er’s plate to a location 90 degrees to the path of the runner, just short ofthe base they are trying to reach and 10-12 feet from the base. When mov-ing to the holding zone, move directly to an area in foul ground about halfway to 3rd base and read the play.

• Third, the plate umpire has fair/foul responsibility on ground balls nearthe foul line. Position yourself on the foul line, and if the ball is foul sig-nal raising your hands over your head and giving a verbal call of “foul orfoul ball“ If the ball is fair, point toward fair territory with the arm closestto fair ground.

• Fourth, on fly balls to the outfield not near the foul line, move to obtain agood angle to the catch versus straight at the fielder catching the ball. Ifthe ball is caught give an out signal and a verbal “out” call.

• Fifth, on a fly ball to the outfield near the foul line, when your partner doesturn their back, the plate umpires has fair/foul and catch responsibilities.When the ball is near the foul line with no runner at 3rd base, move upthe foul line to a position where you can see the ball land. If the ball isfoul, give the dead ball signal followed by a verbal call of “foul or foulball”. If the ball is, give the fair ball signal. No verbal call is given. Whenthe ball is close to the foul line and is touched, whether caught or not, theumpire must give the ball status by pointing fair or foul. When the ball isfirst touched over fair territory point fair and if the ball is not caught thepoint is followed by a strong “fair ball” signal. If the ball is caught, give anout signal. When the ball is first touched over foul territory, point foul andif the ball is not caught, give a strong dead ball signal and strong verbalcall of “foul or foul ball”. If the ball is caught, give an out signal.

• Sixth, when the ball is hit over the fence in fair territory, give a home runsignal by raising the right arm above the head, fist closed and rotate thefist. When a fair batted ball is touched in flight and goes over the fence in


fair territory, give the four base award signal by raising the right arm abovethe head, hand open with four fingers shown and verbally call “fourbases”. If the ball hits the ground before clearing the fence and thenbounces over the fence, give the two base award signal by raising the rightarm above the head, hand open with two consecutive fingers extended andverbally call “two bases”.

Movement to Third Base: Once the umpire has exited to the catcher’s left, thereare several situations where the umpire should move to third base:

• First, after going to the holding zone and a play develops at third base,move inside the diamond about two-thirds of the way to third base,approximately10-12 feet from the base, obtaining a 90 degree angle. Stop,read the play, then make the call.

• Second, when exiting the catcher with a play immediately at third base,move up the foul line in fair territory to approximately 10-12 feet from thebase, obtaining a 90 degree angle. Stop, read the play, then make the call.

Plays at Home Plate:There are specific mechanics used by the plate umpirewhen making calls at home plate:• On throws from the outfield or the infield assume a position in foul

ground, 90 degrees to the path of the runner, to approximately 10-12 feetfrom home plate in line with the outside deepest corner of the right hand-ed batter’s box. Adjust as needed to obtain an unobstructed view of theplay. If the ball gets away from the catcher and goes behind you, move asthe play dictates to get an unobstructed view. Avoid going inside the dia-mond as a last resort.

• When returning to home plate from a play at third base and the ball is infoul ground, remain inside the diamond and move parallel to the baseline, to approximately 10-12 feet from home plate, obtaining a 90 degreeangle to the path of the runner.

• On a timing play where the runner does not touch the plate before the lastout of the inning is made and the run will not count, give an emphatic safesignal and say “run doe not count” or ”no run.”

BASE MECHANICS

Base mechanics begin with the fundamentals of positioning, followed by timing,judgment, signals, and a verbal call.

Base Mechanics


Base Mechanics

A. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES1. Starting positionThe base umpire, with no runners on base, starts on the foul line 18-21 feetbehind first base and walk the line. Walk the line by taking one or two stepstoward home plate, pushing off with your foot to move off the foul line whenthe ball is batted.2. Preparation Prior to the PitchWhen starting off the line or starting on the line with runners on base, thebase umpire will take the “ready position or stance” prior to a pitch beingdelivered to the batter. Do this by:A. Placing your feet at least shoulder width apart to create a firm foundation

as you will have to move when the ball is put in play.B. Stand upright in a comfortable position and lean forward as the ball is

delivered to the batter. This will transfer your body weight from the heelsto the balls of your feet for better balance.

C. Keep your hands in a comfortable position in front of the body betweenyour upper legs and your belt buckle.

D. The “Ready Position/ Stance” allows the umpire to react to a batted ballin the same manner as a defensive player.

3. General Techniques on the Bases:Umpires must be “Students of the Game” in preparation for handling deci-sions on the bases. The game situation will include the presence of runnerson base, the number of outs and the count on the batter. These factors willdictate the base umpire’s primary responsibility as a play develops. Yourcomplete concentration, full energies, and undivided attention is requiredfrom the first pitch to the last out. Work for the best angle on all plays and do not let the players or coach makethe call for you. On a close play, sell the call, but on an obvious play use onlya routine signal. Whenever possible, stop to allow yourself time to see the entire play beforemaking a decision. See the play to its completion and give a strong verbalcall, followed by a visual signal; this will help with your timing and reducethe possibility of the dreaded out/safe call.On a ball that is hit to the outfield that could possibly be trapped, go out on


Base Mechanics

It, even with runners on base. Remember to communicate with your part-ner(s).on home runs hit out of the park, know where and when the ball leftthe playing field.

4. Points governing decisions on the Bases:Base umpire decisions are governed by the game situation and the actions ofoffensive and defensive participants. The four elements of a play consist of:

1. Ball

2. Base

3. Offense

4. Defense

The base umpire must hustle to get into the correct position to see theseelements come together before making a call.

Umpires should say “SAFE” and give the safe signal when a runner beats theball to the base on a force out attempt and likewise say “OUT” and give theout signal when the ball beats the runner to the base. A good verbal call andstrong signal should be given simultaneously. The volume of the voiceshould reflect the closeness of the play.

If you think that you were blocked out on seeing the entire play and are askedto “go for help” the go to your partner for information to get the call correct.ALWAYS MAKE THE CALL AND THEN GO FOR HELP, IF NEEDED.

5. Watching the ball:Watching the ball aids a base umpire in reading where the play is likely todevelop. The umpire must watch the ball as it is fielded on the infield whilemoving to the proper position for the primary call. Let the ball turn your headinto the play as the four elements of the play come together; stop, watch theplay, and make the call.

On batted balls to the outfield, watch the ball and glance at the runner. As therunner gets close to the base change your focus to glancing at the ball andwatching the runner to see the runner touch the base. Know where the ballis at all times, no live ball play can be made on a batter-runner without theball.


Base Mechanics

B. BASE CALLS1. Force Plays/Plays at 1B/Tag Plays: Tags plays, force plays and plays at

First Base require movement to the proper position to see the entire play.• On a play at First Base, with no runners on base and a ground ball to

the infield, move parallel to the base line without taking your eyes offthe ball, move no further than a 45 degree angle from the foul lineand no closer than 18 feet from the base. When the runner is out ona very close play use the sell out signal. This signal is nothing morethan simulating a throw by a fielder. Move your feet as if you werefielding a ground ball and give a signal followed by a strong “out”call. When the runner is safe on a very close play use the “sell safe”signal. This is made by stepping toward the play, giving an emphatic“safe” signal and a strong “safe” call. Finish the call by bringing yourrear foot forward and squaring up to the play.

• With a runner at First Base and a ground ball to the infield for a pos-sible play, make two movements from the starting position. When theplay goes to second base, take one or two parallel steps toward sec-ond base to watch the play and push off with the right foot and makethe call while moving parallel to the baseline toward first base. With-out taking your eyes off the play let the ball turn your head to the playat first base. Stop, see the play, then make the call.

• On a tag play, take a position 90 degrees to the path of the runner justshort of the base they are trying to reach at a depth of 10-12 feet fromthe play. All four elements will be in front of you. As the play devel-ops, move to get an unobstructed view, read the play, hesitate slight-ly, and then make the call.

• On a routine out call, keep your feet at least should width apart andbring your body to an upright position. Raise your arm to a 90 degreeangle with the fist closed, so the elbow can be seen with your periph-eral vision. On a routine safe call, keep your feet at least shoulderwidth apart and bring your body to an upright position while bring-ing your hands chest high with palms down. With forearms parallelto the ground, extend your arms straight out keeping palms down.


Base Mechanics

2. Swipe Tag / Pulled FootAdjustment from Primary position. Once you have obtained the best angle tosee the play, further actions may dictate the need to move. Sometimes move-ment from the primary position will help the umpire get an unobstructedview of the play.

• After obtaining 90 degrees to the path of the runner on a tag play, youshould adjust as necessary.

• After obtaining your angle on the play at first base and the throw takesthe defense off the base for a possible swipe tag, move with the playto keep an unobstructed view. A slight adjustment will put you inposition to see the possible tag. Once you see the tag, point with theleft hand say,” TAG”, followed by an “out” call and signal.

• After obtaining an angle on the play at first base and there is a possi-ble pulled foot, move with the play to keep an unobstructed view. Aslight adjustment can put you in a better position to see the foot offthe base. If the fielder pulls their foot, point with the left hand and say,“OFF THE BASE” and give a strong “safe” signal and a clear “SAFE”call.

3. Working Outside the DiamondA State Adopted Softball MechanicGenerally umpires have been instructed to come inside the diamond when

the ball is in the outfield and to stay outside the diamond when the ball is inthe infield. The idea of this mechanic is that it will keep the ball in front ofthe umpire.

This would be true if the diamond were a straight line but it is not. It is a dia-mond, and if the ball is outside the diamond on one side of the diamond andthe umpire comes inside the diamond on an opposite side of the diamond,then, very often, the umpire is actually putting the ball behind him.

Rather than always coming inside or always staying outside, umpires mustlearn to determine what position will best serve them on each type of hit. Ifcoming inside the diamond puts the ball at your back, it is probably not thebest choice.

Read the ball. Know what your initial and subsequent responsibilities are.Choose the best positioning for umpiring the particular play at hand.


By not automatically coming inside on every ball batted to the outfield anumpire reaps other benefits that are not at first apparent. For instance, theumpire can save many steps over the course of the game. By not pivotinginside the umpire has more time to assess the action – will the ball likely becaught, dropped, go through and roll to the fence – and thus is better ableto know what will be required of him. By being still and alert, as opposed tomoving inside, umpires should have more accurate judgments on tag-upsand clear views of any obstructions.Every play is unique and requires an evaluation and choice by the umpire.Some generalities that can usually be applied are:• With no one on and the ball hit center or left field – stay outside• With no one on and the ball hit right-center or right field and there may

be a play on the batter-runner – stay outside• With no one on and the ball hit to right-center or right field – pivot inside• From B position and the ball hit to center or left field – stay outside• From B position and the ball hit right field – pivot inside• From C positions, since the umpire will always be responsible for the bat-ter-runner at first, the umpire must come inside on nearly all runner config-urations and the ball hit to the outfield.Rather than trying to memorize anything, or always doing this, or alwaysdoing that, umpires should work towards making good choices of position-ing no matter where they are on the diamond, no matter how many runnersthere are, and no matter where the ball is hit.With no one on, the ball hit left field, the umpire chooses to stay outside, andit turns into a triple:SummaryOn balls hit to the outfield, umpires can choose to pivot inside the diamondor stay on the outside. This choice is governed by runner configuration,where the ball is hit, and the type of hit. Umpires should take a position thatkeeps the ball in front of them and allows them to achieve the best angles forexecuting their initial and any subsequent responsibilities.

Base Mechanics


4. Fly Ball CoverageThere are times when a base umpire needs to go to the outfield for fly ballcoverage. When going out on a fly ball, the angle you obtain is very impor-tant.• When going to the outfield, the umpire should verbally communicate

with his partner, using phrases such as “one man”, “two man” orgoing.

• When going to the outfield, move for an angle parallel to the flight ofthe ball as opposed to running directly at the fielder attempting tomake the catch. This allows a better view of the catch or no catch.Read the fielder so that you are stopped and set to see the play andmake the call by signaling either “out for a catch or “safe” for nocatch. Once the call is made, let the ball turn back to the infield toobserve additional plays. Stay in the outfield and do not come backuntil all play has ceased.

• When going out on fly balls near the foul line stay near the foul line.You are responsible for “FAIR” or “FOUL” and “CATCH” or “NOCATCH.”Position yourself near the foul line, and if it is foul, signal byraising the hands over the head and give a verbal call of “Foul” or“Foul Ball”. If the ball is fair, point toward fair territory with the arm closest to fair ground.

• When the ball is close to the foul line and is touched, whether caughtor not, the umpire must first give the ball status by point fair or foul.When the ball is first touched over fair territory, point fair and if theball is not caught the point is followed by a strong fair signal. If theball is caught, an out signal is given. When the ball is first touchedover foul, point foul and if the ball is not caught give a strong deadball signal and strong verbal call of “foul” or “foul ball”. If the ball iscaught give an “out” signal.

5. Difficult Situations:A. Live Ball running violations:There are violations by runners that require a signal and a verbal callwhen they occur, while allowing the ball to remain alive: 1. Running out of the base path to avoid a tag:

Base Mechanics


a. Point at the runner with your left hand and verbalize” out of thebase path…out”.

b. Let the play continue. 2. Passing a runner:

a. Point at the runner who passed their teammate and verbalize“out”.

b. Let the play continue. B. Run Downs:When a player is caught in a rundown it is important that the umpire(s)responsible for the coverage move(s) to get the best perspective of bothends of the play. Most rundowns are only covered by one umpire. 1. Stay approximately 12-15 feet from the rundown and move parallel to

the baseline.2. Know where the ball is at all times. 3. Move quickly toward and around the play to achieve the best angle as

the tag is applied.4. Be alert for obstruction or interference.

When covering rundowns with two umpires, each umpire should take a posi-tion at their end of the rundown. This is referred to as “bracketing”. Whenbracketing one umpire should be outside the diamond and the other umpireshould stay inside the diamond.In all cases, communication is a must. When two umpires are covering a run-down the umpire with the clear unobstructed view of the tag should make thecall. To prevent both umpires from making a call, eye contact is essential pri-or to the call being made.C. Interference: To indicate that inference has occurred the umpire should:

1. Step forward while giving a strong “Dead Ball” signal while emphati-cally calling “Dead Ball”

2. Point to the interference then give the strong “Out” signal and a ver-bal “Out” call.

Base Mechanics


Difficult Situations

D. Obstruction: The base umpire should immediately:1. Give the “Delayed Dead Ball” signal and verbally say “obstruction”

The signal need not be held throughout the play, but just long enoughfor it to be seen.

2. When the play becomes dead, make a proper obstruction award. Beprepared to explain your ruling.

3. If the obstructed runner is put out prior the base(s) they would havereached had there no obstruction, the umpire shall call “time” andaward the obstructed runner and all other runners, the base(s) theywould have reached had there been no obstruction.

4. When Catcher’s Obstruction occurs, the plate shall give the “DelayedDead Ball” signal and verbalize “Catcher’s Obstruction”

5. Be prepared to apply the appropriate enforcement.E. Collision:Contact between defensive and offensive does not necessarily mean thatobstruction or interference occurred. The field is laid out in such a man-ner that it puts the defensive and offensive players on a collision course.Consider the following:1. Did the offensive player alter their direction in a way to draw contact

with the defensive player in an attempt to draw an obstruction call?2. Did the defensive player alter their direction in a way to draw an inter-

ference call?3. Could the defensive player actually make a play?4. Did the defensive player have possession of the ball?Through knowledge of Interference and Obstruction rules and their appli-cation can assist in making a prompt and accurate decision.


DIFFICULT SITUATIONSIllegal pitches/Catcher’s Obstruction: When catcher’s obstruction or an ille-gal is called,the umpire should giove the delayed dead ball signal. Give the dignalby extending the left arm straight out to the side of the body with the fist closedwhile verbalizing “obstruction”or illegal pitch.

The illegal can be called by either umpire.The plate umpire calls the timing ele-ments,stepping outside the twenty-four inch width of the pitcher’s plate.The baseumpire is responsible for infractions involving the pivot foot not being in contactwith the pitcher’s plate, crow hop or leap.The batter may swing at or hit an ille-gal pitch after it’s been called.If the batter reaches first base safely and all run-ners advance at least one base the illegal pitch is ignored and no option is given.

If not,the coach of the offrended team is given the option of taking the result ofthe play,or having a ball awarded to the batter and all runners advanced onebase.If an illegal pitch hits a batter,the batter is awarded first base and all runnersare advanced one base.

Catcher’s obstruction is the act of a catcher that hinders or prevents the batterfrom striking at or hitting a pitched ball. If the batter reaches first base safely andall runners advance at least one base the obstruction is cancelled. All action as aresult of the batted ball stands.No option is given.Once a runner has passed a basethe runner is considered to have reached that base.If all runners,including thebatter runner do not advance at least one base,the coach has the option of takingthe result of the play or enforcing obstruction by awarding the batter first base andadvancing all runners if forced.

If the catcher steps on, or in front of home plate without the ball and preventsthe batter from hitting the ball,the umpire will call

“Dead Ball”.The batter is awarded first base and all runners are advanced onebase ,if forced.

On a swing or attempted bunt,the catcher or any other fielder prevents the batterfrom hitting the ball,touches the batter or their bat with a runner on third basetrying to score on a squeeze play or a steal,the ball is dead.The runner shall beawarded home plate and the batter shall be awarded first base on the obstruc-tion.All other runners shall advance if forced.




Hit By Pitch: Kill the play as soon as the batter is hit,with a strong “Dead Ball”verbal call. Now review the action that just happened.Did the batter make amotion to turn away from the pitch,or was the batter in the strike zone making noattempt to avoid being hit by the pitch? If the batter was avoiding the pitch, awardthem first base. If they made on attempt to get out of the way,there is no award.Ifthe ball was in the strike zone,it should be called a strike,with a strong verbal call.

Hitting the ball a second time:When the ball hits the bat a second time or hitsthe batter, a dead ball is declared using the dead ball signal and a strong verbalcall.While making the dead ball call,

Review in your mind what you just saw. Then,ask yourself the question, did thesecond hit occur in fair or foul territory? If the answer is foul territory,the ball isfoul and a strike is called on the batter. If the ball is fair,the next question you needto ask is whether the batter was in or out of the batter’s box,If they were in thebatter’s box it is a foul ball and a strike is called on the batter. If the second hitoccurred out of the batter’s box,the batter is out.In each case give a strong deadball call and point to where thesecond hit took place. Then announce to all theresult of the action,“foul ball,strike on the batter” or “the batter is out”.

The base umpire should assist the plate umpire by making a dead ball signal anda verbal call immediately,indicating only that there was a second hit.

Remember, as a plate umpire take charge of this call and SELL IT.

Check Swing: When asking for help on a check swing,the umpire should stepout from behind the plate,remove the mask,point to their partner and ask “didthey swing” or did they go?”

Batted Ball off of a batter’s foot:1. When the batter is in the batter’s box:

a. Raise both hands above the head and call “dead ball”to stop theaction.

b. Verbalize “foul ball”.2. When the batter is out of the batter’s box:

a. Raise both hands above the head and call “dead ball” to stop theaction.


Signals

SIGNALS

A – Standard Umpire SignalsB – Umpire-to-Umpire Signals

A – STANDARD UMPIRE S IGNALS

Umpires are communicators, and signals are how umpires communicate. You musthave good signals to be a good umpire. The univeral language of umpiring is bodylanguage, and the words of this language are signals. Signals are a form of signlanguage. In sign language, only the hands are used. In signal language, the wholebody is used. Signal language is designed to be understood immediately by anyone atany ball park.

Every signal initiates from a set or ready set position. The feet are planted in a solid,wide base at least shoulder width apart. In order for a signal to convey its message, itmust be seen. The first move before giving any signal is to, without moving your feet,come to a full standing position. Nearly all signals are given up or away from the bodyfor the express purpose of being seen.

Once a signal is seen, everyone who sees it must understand what it means. Signalsmust always be informative, precise, dignified, structured and calculated. Signals aredesigned to convey strength, confidence and authority. Any movement while giving asignal is always forward at the play. The signal is held long enough to conveyconviction, then the arms and hands are brought back into the body, thus completingthe signal, before moving to the next position.

Signals are precious and should not be used unnecessarily. The less a signal is seenthe more effective it is when used. Do not draw attention to yourself by overusing orneedlessly using any signal. The play does not dictate the structure of a signal. Theplay only dictates the emphasis of the signal or the verbal accompaniment.

Do not echo a partner’s call. If there is no play, a call or signal is not needed. Some


examples of when a signal is not needed are (but not limited to):

• The ball clearly goes over the fielder’s head or bounces in front of her

• A pitch is fouled directly back to the backstop or fouled over the backstop orover the sides of the backstop

• The ball is overthrown or completely missed by the intended receiver

• A runner obtains a base or home before the ball arrives

• While the batter is getting set, pitcher is showing no indication or quick pitching

OUT

From a standing position with feet shoulder widthapart, pull the left hand/arm into the midsection ofthe body. Extend the right arm straight up with thepalm of the hand facing the ear. Bring the rightforearm slightly forward while clenching it into a fist(this is the Hammer). The right upper arm andforearm should be at a 90 degree angle or greater.Verbally call “Out.” Bring the right arm back into thebody before moving the feet or moving to the nextposition.

Note: Left handed umpires may reverse this and usethe left hand to signal outs.

OVERHAND OUT

With feet at least shoulder width apart, step at the play with the left foot. Bring the rightfoot over and behind the left foot while raising the right arm high in the air. Plant theright foot and step forward again with the left foot while bringing the right arm overthe top of the head in a throwing motion with a closed fist. Just as the throwing motionis completed, bring the right foot forward, in line with the left foot and end in a set

Signals


position. A verbal call of “Out” (usually drawn out – oouutt) accompanies the signalusually starting when the arm is directly overhead and finishing with the thrown fist.(reverse if left handed)

It is important to have complete control of the body during and at the end of thesignal. The signal should end in a balanced position with the umpire facing the play.

PUNCH OUT

Use the signal as a sell out when you aretoo close to the play to do a full overhandout. It can also be used if a play warrantsmore than a routine out but less than a fulloverhand out.

From a standing position with feet shouldwidth apart, step back with the right footand punch forward with the right arm atabout shoulder height. The hand is in a fist.This technique brings you no closer to theplay than when you started. The initialstepping back is overshadowed andcompensated for by the strength andforward thrust of the punch. (reverse if lefthanded)

Signals


SAFE – NO CATCH – NO TAG – NO INFRACTION

From a standing position with feet shoulderwidth apart, bring both arms into the chest atshoulder level with the palms of the hands facingdown. Extend both arms straight out horizontallywith the palms down. Do not have your hands infists. Verbally call “Safe,” “No Catch,” “No Tag.”Bring both arms back into the body (similar to aReady Set position) before moving the feet ormoving to the next position.

SELL SAFE

From a standing position with feetshoulder width apart, bring both armsinto the chest at shoulder level, parallel tothe ground, with the palms of the handsfacing down. Take a step at the play withthe left foot while extending both armsstraight out horizontally with the palmsdown. Loudly call “Safe.” Complete thesignal by bringing the right foot forwardon a line with the left foot. Bring botharms back into the body (similar to aReady Set position) before moving thefeet or moving to the next position.

DEAD BALL – FOUL BALL – NO PITCH

From a standing position with feet shoulder width apart,raise both arms straight up with palms forward. Armsshould be at about a 35 to 40 degree angle from thebody. Verbally call: “Dead Ball,” “Foul Ball,” or “NoPitch.” If the ball is close to the line, the feet should bestraddling the line. When the plate umpire signals “NoPitch,” the signal may be accompanied by movement tothe open side of the plate for better visibility.

Signals


Signals

TIME

From a standing position with feet shoulder width apart, raiseboth arms straight up with palms forward. Arms should be atabout a 25 to 30 degree angle from the body. Verbally call:“Time.”

FAIR BALL

From a standing position with feet shoulder widthapart, extend the arm closest to the field horizontally atshoulder height and point, with either open hand palmforward or a finger, to fair ground. Do not make averbal call. If the ball is close to the line, the feetshould be straddling the line.

FAIR/FOUL INDICATOR

The Fair/Foul Indicator signal is nolonger endorsed

On any fly ball close to the fair/foul linethe umpire should straddle the line, feetshoulder width apart, and, depending onthe resulting action, rule the ball fair,foul, or an out.


DELAYED DEAD BALL

Extend the left arm straight out at shoulder height,parallel to the ground. The hand is in a fist with thefingers of the fist facing forward.

INFIELD FLY

Fully extend the right arm above the head with the handin a clenched fist. Verbalize: “Infield fly. The batter isout.” If the ball is close to a line say: “Infield fly. Thebatter is out, is fair.”

The plate umpire is responsible for making this call.Once the plate umpire makes the call, it should beechoed by the bases umpires using the same signal butverbalizing only: “Infield fly.”

If the plate umpire does not make the call (forgets or isnot certain of the call) and a base umpire, after eyecontact communication with the plate umpire, iscertain the ball is an infield fly; the base umpire maymake the call.

Signals


POINT

The right or left arm extended straight out at the play orplayer. Only the index finger is extended on the hand.The other arm should be under control in close to thebody.

Use the Point to indicate an abnormality in a play. (e.g. atag, a missed tag, a pulled foot) or to reference a playerwho committed some act. This signal is followed beanother signal, usually ‘out’ or ‘safe.’ The Point signalmust be finished (bring the arm into the body) beforeanother singal is started.

HOME RUN

Fully extend the right or left arm above the head with theindex finger pointed skyward and make a clockwisemotion with the hand and arm.

DOUBLE

Fully extend the right arm above the head with the indexand middle finger showing on the hand. Do not circlethe arm.

Signals


EJECTION

It is imperative when making this signal than no aggressive move or gesture, real orperceived, is made toward the person being ejected. The signal should be moderatelyanimated after increasing the physical distance between the umpire and the ejectedperson as needed. This signal does not have to be exact, but it must be clearlyunderstood (that someone has been ejected) and should not be overly demonstrative.Two options are offered:

While facing the person to be ejected, step back with the left foot (this opens the bodyand will allow it to turn/open to your left as you make the arm signal). Bring the rightarm with the index finger extended, up, across the body and point skyward to yourleft. Your arm should be at a 45 degree angle to your body. You will be facing awayfrom the ejected person now and the right side of the body will be facing him/her.Reverse if left-handed.

Hold up the right arm with the palm open and forward (like calling Time but only halfthe signal – just one arm and slightly lower). This indicates the discussion is ended.Draw the right hand back to the right ear and redirect it skyward at a 45 degree angleaway from the body. The index finger should be extended. Reverse if left-handed.

Signals


THE RUN SCORES

Stand at a plate and emphatically point down atthe plate while saying, “The run scores!”“Score the run!” Establish eye contact with thescore tabel while signaling and make sure therun goes up on the scoreboard. If necessary, usa deliberate pumping motion with the armwhile pointing at the plate and repeat, “The runscores.”

THE RUN DOES NOT SCORE

Stand at the plate. Raise both arms above thehead like a Foul Ball signal. Cross the armsback and forth (not too quickly) while saying,“No Run!” “The run does not score!” Establisheye contact with the score table while signaling.Watch the scoreboard to make sure a run isnot recorded.

PLAY BALL

Any of a variety of hand motions use by theplate umpire to indicate the ball is in play. Witharm extended toward the pitcher, the umpiremay use a beckoning motion with an openhand, a pointing motion with one or twofingers extended. The signal may beaccompanied with the verbal call: “Play ball.”The verbal call may be used without any signal.

Signals


Signals

Do Not P i t ch

Either arm of the plate umpire extended straightout directly at the pitcher with the hand open andthe palm of the hand facing the pitcher. Using thehand opposite the batter gives this signal bettervisibility.

STRIKE

The verbal call of “Strike” is made in the down/setposition. The signal is made in the “up” or “goingto the up” position. The feet do not move duringthe signal. The left hand/arm is pulled into themidsection of the body. The right arm is 1)extended straight up with the palm of the handfacing the ear then following by bringing the rightforearm slightly forward while clenching it into afist (this is the Hammer), 2) extended up andforward as the hand closes in a fist. In eitherestyle, the right upper arm and forearm should beat a 90 degree angle or greater. The signal is heldlong enough to convey the decision withconviction. The signal is finished by bringing theright arm back into the body before stepping backor moving the feet.

FOUL T IP

This is an optional signal. It may be usedevery time the ball is a foul tip or usedonly at times when the ball being a tip isnot completely obvious. Bring the lefthand in front of your body, mid chest orhigher, with the palm or back of the handfacing you. With an upward motion, brushthe fingeers of the left hand with thefingers of the right hand. This signal isalways followed by a strike signal.


Signals

Count

Raise both arms up and in front of the body. Eacharm/hand should be seen peripherally when theumpire is looking at the pitcher. Balls are shown withthe fingers of the left hand. Strikes are shown with thefingers of the right hand. Consecutive fingers shouldbe used in displaying the count. A verbal call mayaccompany the signal and, if used, should be asfollows: “2 balls, 2 strikes.” Do not say: “2 and 2,” or“22.” The count is given to the pitcher and held longenough for any other player to see it. The hands maybe turned to increase visibility.

B – UMPIRE-TO-UMPIRE S IGNALS

Whereas most signals are used to convey information to everyone in the ball park,umpire-to-umpire signals are meant to convey information between umpires. Thesear not secret signals. It does not matter if anyone other than an umpire sees them. It isjust that no one else needs to see them other than other umpires.

Because of this difference, unlike most signals that are given up and away from thebody, umpire-to-umpire signals are given lower and closer into the body.

Like all signals, these signals are vital to good communication within the crew. Thesesignals should be precise, dignified and used consistently. To enhance visibility andrecognition of the signals should always be given against a contrasting backgroundsuch as the shirt or pant leg.

INFIELD FLY S ITUATION ON

The right hand, palm open, on the left chest indicates theinfield fly situation is in effect.

The infield fly signal should be initiated by the plate umpirejust prior to the batter stepping in the box. Each base umpireshould acknowledge, to the plate umpire, by returning thesame signal. The signal should be given before every batterwhen an infield fly situation is possible.


INFIELD FLY S ITUATION OFF

The right hand used in a wiping motion fromthe left elbow to the left wrist indicates theinfield fly situation is no longer in effect.

HOW MANY OUTS?

To verify or determine how many outs thereare, the umpire looks to a partner and clenchesthe right fist against the right thigh.

There is nothing wrong with verbalizing therequest: “Partner, how many outs do youhave?” This, however, draws attention to theumpire and, if it is not necessary, umpiresshould avoid drawing attention to themselves. Ifsush a request needs to be made more thanonce during a game, it gives the impression thatthe umpire is not concentrating.

HOW MANY OUTS – RESPONSE

The responding umpire should indicate thenumber of outs by puttinng the appropriatenumbere of fingers against the right thigh.

Signals


WHAT’S THE COUNT?

To request the count from a partner, place bothopened hands against the chest.

There is nothing wrong with verbalizing therequest: “Partner, what count do you have?”This, however, draws attention to the umpireand, if it is not necessary, umpires should avoiddrawing attention to themselves. Also, if thecount is being lost on a regular basis, it gives theimpression that the umpire is not concentrating.

WHAT’S THE COUNT – RESPONSE

The responding umpire should indicate thecorrect count by the fingers on the chest.

THIRD STRIKE IS CAUGHT

The elbow of the right arm is held at the side ofthe waist with only the forearm extending outfrom the body at a 90 degree angle. The hand isclenched in a fist. This signal is used by the baseumpire to indicate to the plate umpire that thethird strike was caught by the catcher.

Signals


Signals

THIRD STRIKE IS NOT CAUGHT

The elbow of the right arm is held at the side ofthe waist, with only the farearm extended outfrom the body, at a 45 degree angle to the body.The index finger is pointing at the ground. Thissignal is used by the base umpire to indicate athird strike is not caught. It alerts all umpires to apossible play on the batter-runner.

TIME PLAY

Tap the left wrist, where a watch is normallyworn, with the fingers of the right hand.

This alerts all umpires to the possibility of a timeplay. Usually used with two outs and runners onfirst and/or second.

TIME PLAY RESPONSE

Responsd with the same signal to acknowledgeawareness of the situation.


The Base Umpire

DIAGRAMS AND MECHANICSFOR VARIOUS UMPIRE SYSTEMS

THE ONE-UMPIRE SYSTEM

Between-inning Mechanics

Plate umpire assumes a position approximately10 feet from home plate, near the line in foul ter-ritory and facing the infield. Alternate foul linesaccording to the following policy: Take a posi-tion on the foul line that is on the side of the fieldthe team coming off the field crosses to enter thebench area.

The one-umpire system is being used in only a very few areas of thenation today. It is used only when necessity demands. It is not consideredefficient nor adequate and is generally unsatisfactory. It is anticipated thissystem will be discarded by schools as soon as feasible. This has been sorecommended by the NFHS Softball Rules Committee. One umpire cannotdo an adequate job officiating a softball contest. It is the opinion of mostsoftball authorities that when only one umpire officiates a game, the bestlocation throughout the game is behind the plate prior to the pitch. If hetakes a position behind the pitcher with a runner on first base only (somebelieve he/she should in this one case), his/her vantage point for ruling onpitches is poor, and he/she cannot reliably determine whether sharply hitline drives down the foul line strike fair or foul.

There is no excuse for calling a play from behind or just in front of theplate. In the following diagrams, “U” will designate the umpire.

Position: Situation:

A. Ground ball — no runners onB. Ground ball — runner on first base

or runners on first and second basesC. Ground ball—bases loaded


Fly Ball SituationA. No runners — fly ball to infield or

outfield and not near the foul line, orB. Runners on first base, orC. Runners on first and second or sec-

ond only, move to a possible call atthird or to foul territory ahead of thelead runner for a possible play athome if necessary after the catch, or

D. Runner on second and third or firstand third.

NOTE: On all fly-ball situations where the ball is near the foul line, theumpire must stay on the foul line to determine whether the ball is fair orfoul. Then move into the infield to pick up runners and plays.

No Runner on Base Situation

A. No runners — single outB. No runners — doubleC. No runners — tripleD. No runners — home run

NOTE: On all base hit situations, the umpire must watch runners tag basesand be aware of position of the ball.

THE TWO-UMPIRE SYSTEM

The most widely used umpire system in interscholastic softball is thetwo-umpire system. Following is a series of diagrams and procedures onumpire mechanics for this system of coverage. The positioning describedin the illustration on the following pages is recommended for normal rou-tine situations encountered. COMMUNICATION BETWEEN UMPIRES ISESSENTIAL IN ALL SITUATIONS.

Fly Ball Tag-up ResponsibilitiesThe PLATE UMPIRE has tag-up responsibilities under the following

situations:

The Base Umpire


1. All runners at third base, and2. The runner at second with runners at first and second base.The FIELD UMPIRE has tag-up responsibilities under the followingsituations:1. All runners at first base.2. The runner at second base with runners at second and third or

second only.3. Runners at first and second when the bases are loaded.

NOTE: These tag-up procedures should be followed at all times. KEY TO DIAGRAMS: P — plate umpire; B — base or field umpire;

R — runner or runnersNo Runners on BasePLATE UMPIRE:

1. On outfield ground balls close to foulline, as long as time permits, theplate umpire should move up theline to make the call.

2. On infield hits, move up the first-baseline obverving the play and be pre-pared to help your partner.

3. Refer to the PLATE MECHANICS.

FIELD UMPIRE:1. Basic position is 18-21 feet beyond

first base in foul territory.2. Refer to FIELD MECHANICS.

Runner on First BasePLATE UMPIRE:

1. On batted balls to the infield, move tothe left of the catcher and up thefirst-base line to observe the play,then fade toward third base to coverthe advancing runner.

2. On steals where there is a wild throwat second base, pick up the runneradvancing to third base.

3. Refer to PLATE MECHANICS.

Communications and Signals


FIELD UMPIRE:1. Take a set position outside the baseline off the second baseman’s left

shoulder. This position will normally place the umpire two or threesteps behind and to the left of the second baseman.

2. If the runner attempts to steal second, move toward the base, stay-ing behind the fielder parallel to the baseline. If the throw is wild,move inside the base paths and be prepared to pick up the runnerto home plate. The PLATE UMPIRE covers third base.

3. On a double play, take one step toward second base parallel to base-line, follow the flight of the ball and move toward first base as theball turns you into the play.

4. Refer to FIELD MECHANICS.

Runner on Second Base OnlyPLATE UMPIRE:

1. On hits to the outfield, move towardthird base. Be ready and in positionto make a call by going down the leftfield foul line in foul ground. When aplay is about to occur, move about18-21 feet from third base, quicklymove into the infield to make the call.

2. If the first play is at first base, andthere is a throw to third, the plateumpire has the call at third.


FIELD UMPIRE:1. Take a set position two or three steps behind and off the left shoul-

der of the shortstop. Be cautious so as not to interfere with the out-fielders view of the batter or play by the infielders. (See diagram)

2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first play unless it is to homeplate. If the first play is to first or second base, any subsequent play

Basic Positions


to third base is covered by the plate umpire.

3. On all balls hit through the infield or to the outfield that you do notgo out on, watch the batter-runner touch first base and take the bat-ter-runner all the way to third base.

4. On routine fly balls to the outfield, move to the infield to a positionbetween the pitcher’s plate and the base line. You are responsiblefor the tag-up of the runner.

5. On an attempted steal of third, move toward third base and be pre-pared for a call.


Runner on Third Base Only

PLATE UMPIRE:

1. If a fly ball is hit, move to position tosee the catch and the tag-up.

2. On base hits with a possible play athome, move to first-base foul lineextended, watching the runner. If therunner goes home, watch the runnertouch home base.


FIELD UMPIRE:

1. Take a set position off the left shoulder of the shortstop.

2. If a ball is hit to the infield, wait until the fielder commits, then movequickly into position to make call. Let the throw turn your head.

3. Call all plays made on the first play unless it is to home plate. Takethe batter-runner into third base and see that all bases are touched.


Basic Positions


Runner on First and Second Base

PLATE UMPIRE:1. On base hits to the outfield, take lead

runner into third base and home. Onsteals where there is a wild throw atsecond base, pick up the runnercoming into third base.

2. Be ready and in position to make acall at third base by going to theholding zone 10-12 feet off of foulline, from the holding zone quicklymove into the infield for good posi-tion to make the call.

If There is an Overthrow at 3rd Base:2a.In returning to third base, and the ball is in foul territory, the plate

umpire should stay inside the diamond, moving parallel to thebaseline and assume a position 10 to 12 feet from home plate and90 degrees from the path of the runner. On a play at third thatallows the runner to advance, the ball for the most part, will windup in foul territory. You remain inside the diamond as you move tohome plate. All four elements will remain within view – the ball,the defense, the offense and the base.

3. On hits, move toward third base. If the lead runner comes home andthere is no play made on the runner, drift toward third but watch therunner touch home plate.

4. You are also responsible for tag-up at second base.5. Refer to PLATE MECHANICS.

FIELD UMPIRE:1. Take a set position two or three steps behind and off the left or right

(optional) shoulder of the shortstop.2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first play unless it is to home

plate. If the first play is to first or second base, any subsequent playto third base is covered by the plate umpire.

3. If the runner attempts to steal third, move toward the base to makethe call.

4. On routine fly balls to the outfield, move into the infield to a posi-tion between pitcher’s plate and base line. You are responsible forthe tag-up of the runner on first.

5. See that the runner and batter touch second and first bases. When

Basic Positions

HOLDING

ZONE


Basic Positions

the ball is in the outfield, take a position deep enough in the infieldto allow you to move in for a play at either base.


Runner on Second and Third Base

PLATE UMPIRE:

1. If a fly ball is hit, line up the runneron third base and watch the tag-up.

2. On base hits, move toward thirdbase. If the lead runner comes homeand there is no play made on her,drift toward third, but watch the run-ner touch home plate. If there is aplay at home, move back to a posi-tion in first-base foul line extended.

3. If the play is at first base, watch thelead runner touch home plate, thengo to third for a possible play on thesecond runner.


FIELD UMPIRE:

1. Take a set position two or three steps behind and off the left or right(optional) shoulder of the shortstop.

2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first play unless it is to homeplate. If the first play is to first or second base, any subsequent playto third base is covered by the plate umpire.

3. On fly balls, line up the runner on second base and the plate umpirewill line up the runner at third.

4. On all balls hit through the infield or to the outfield that you do notgo out on, take the batter-baserunner all the way to third base.



Runner on First and Third BasePLATE UMPIRE:

1. If a fly ball is hit, get out from behindhome plate and line up the runneron third base and watch the tag-up.

2. On base hits, move toward thirdbase. If the lead runner comes homeand there is no play made, drifttoward third, but watch the runnertouch home plate. If there is a play athome, move back to a positiontoward the first-base foul lineextended.


FIELD UMPIRE:1. Take a set position two or three steps behind and off the left or right

(optional) shoulder of the shortstop.2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first play unless it is to home

plate. If the first play is to first or second base, any subsequent playto third base is covered by the plate umpire.

3. On a base hit, watch the runner on first touch second base and bealert for a play at that base, take the batter-runner as far as thirdbase and make certain that each base is touched.

4. On fly balls, line up the runner on first base. After checking the run-ner tagging at first base, take the runner into second.

5. If the runner attempts to steal second, move toward the base, stay-ing behind the fielder parallel to the baseline. If the throw is wild,move inside the base paths and be prepared to pick up the runnerto home plate. The PLATE UMPIRE covers third base. If a runner on1st base attempts to steal 2nd base, move toward the 2nd base, get-ting in the best position to view the play parallel to the baseline.


Basic Positions


Basic Positions

Bases Loaded

PLATE UMPIRE:

1. If a fly ball is hit, get out from behindhome plate, line up the runner onthird base and watch the tag-up.

2. On base hits, move toward third base infoul territory. If the lead runner comeshome and there is no play made, drifttoward third, but watch the runnertouch home plate. If there is a play athome, move back to a position towardthe first-base foul line extended.

3. If the play is at first base, watch the leadrunner touch home plate, then go tothird for a possible play on the secondrunner.


FIELD UMPIRE:

1. Take a set position two or three steps behind and off the left or right(optional) shoulder of the shortstop.

2. On any ball hit to the infield, take the first play unless it is to homeplate. If the first play is to first or second base, any subsequent playto third base is covered by the plate umpire.

3. Line up runners at first and second base on fly balls.

4. If a ball is hit to the infield, wait until the fielder commits then movequickly toward that base. Let the ball turn your head.

5. On any ball hit to the outfield, be prepared to make a call at first,second or third base.



Basic Positions

WORKING BETWEEN PITCHES:

1. Refer to Field Mechanics Page 21, Item 3.


Basic Positions WORKING BETWEEN PITCHES:

1. Refer to Field Mechanics Page 21, Item 3.


THREE UMPIRE MECHANICS

• Starting PositionsThere are only three different positions you will ever be in at the start

of the pitch1. Standard position2. Rotated position I3. Counter-rotated position

1. Standard Starting PositionA. Use when no runners are on

P: Behind the plate

U1 & U3: On the line in foul territory, 18-21 feet from thebase, standing, facing the plate

B. Use when there is a runner on third base only

P: Behind the plate

U1: On the line in foul territory, 18-21 feet from the base,standing, facing the plate

U3: On the line in foul territory, 10-12 feet from the base,set position, facing the plate

2. Rotated Starting PositionA. Use when there is a runner on first base only

P: Behind the plate U1: On the line in foul territory, 10-12 feet from the base,set position, facing the plate

U3: On an imaginary line extending from third basethrough second base and straight out towards right cen-terfield, 12 feet beyond second base, set position, facinqthe plate

Basic Positions


Basic Positions

3. Counter-rotated Starting PositionA. Use in every runner configuration other than no one on,runner on first only and runner on third only

P: Behind the plate

U1: Depending on where the runners are, somewhere inthe 30 feet between 15 feet from first base and 15 feetfrom second base, optimally no more than 15 feet behindthe baseline, set position, facing the plate

U3: Depending on where the runners are 10-12 feet fromthird base, in foul territory, set position, facing the plate

• When and How Umpires RotateSolid line is Initial Responsibility. Dashed line is Subsequent Responsi-

bility.Lines DO NOT indicate umpire movement path, only umpire base

responsibility

1. From the Standard Starting PositionA. No runners on base

P: Responsible for third base.

U1: Initially responsible for first base and subsequentlyresponsible for home plate

U3: Initially responsible for second base and subse-quently responsible for first and second base

B. Runner on third only - if R3 does not commit to homeplate, this rotation will not occur

P: Initially responsible for home plate, subsequentlyresponsible for third base


Game Situations


U3: Initially responsible for third base, subsequentlyresponsible for second base and first

2. From the Rotated Starting Position

P: Responsible for third base


U3: Initially responsible for second base, subsequentlyresponsible for first and second base

3. From the Counter-Rotated Starting Position with either arunner on second only or runners on sec9~d and thirdonly – in either configuration, if R2 does not commit tohome plate, this rotation will not occur

P: Responsible for home plate, subsequently responsiblefor third base if U3 rotates to second base

U1: Responsible for first base, subsequently responsiblefor second base unless U3 rotates into to second. If U3rotates into second base, U1 is subsequently responsiblefor home plate

U3: Responsible for third base, subsequently may beresponsible for second base unless U1 is taking secondbase


Three Umpire System

• Tag Up ResponsibilitiesLines indicate the base or bases an umpire is responsible for. Thelines do not indicate umpire movement or positioning.A. No umpires chases

Runner on First U1 has Tag at First

Runner on Second U1 has Tag at Second

Runner on Third U3 has tag at Third

Runners on Fisrt & Second U1 has Tag at First & Second

Runners on First & Third U1 has Tag at First·U3 has Tag at Third

Runners on Second & Third U1 has Tag at Second·U3 has Tag at Third

Bases Loaded U1 has Tag at First & Second· U3 has Tag atThird

Fly Ball Coverage – Chasing1. From the Standard Starting Position

Chase when:• Ball is close to fence• More then one fielder is going for the ball• It looks like trouble:

• Short hop• Back pedaling• Diving

2. From the Rotated Starting PositionChase parallel to the flight (path) of the ballUNLESS you will need to judge fair/foul. Ifyou will need to judge fair/foul, chase downthe line.

Always be stopped to see the catch/no catchand to render your judgment.


Three Umpire System

3. From the Counter-rotated Starting PositionWhen an umpire chases, we are workingwith two umpires. Usually, but not always,we revert to the two umpire system.

For instance, when 1U chases with no oneon, P covers 1st and 3U rotates into 2nd.When the BR advances to 2nd, P goes backto the plate and 3U takes the runner to 3rdif needed.

Runners on 1st & 3rd• 1U Chases• P has 3rd• 3U has 1st

Runners on 1st & 3rd• 3U Chases• P has 3rd• 1U has 1st

Runners on 2nd & 3rd• 1U Chases• P has 3rd• 3U has 2nd

Runners on 2nd & 3rd• 3U Chases• P has 3rd• 1U has 2nd


Three Umpire System

B. When an umpire chases


Three Umpire System

B. When an umpire chasescontinued


Three Umpire System

B. Umpire Responsibilities for Runners Leaving Before the Pitch is Released


Two and Three-Umpire Between Inning Mechanics

TWO AND THREE-UMPIRE BETWEEN INNING MECHANICS

PLATE UMPIRE:The plate umpire shall stand between home and third or home andfirst. Alternating foul lines by taking a position on the foul lineextended 6 to 8 feet from the plate that is on the opposite side of thefield where the team is coming off the field.

BASE UMPIRE:The base umpire shall clean the pitcher’s plate after the conclusion ofeach half inning prior to jogging to the outfield grass.


SPECTATOR MANAGEMENT POLICY

Officials are only responsible for team personnel (Players, Coaches, Non-Play-ers, Team Attendants) relating to the game. Game management is responsiblefor everyone else. If someone not under the official’s jurisdiction is to be justi-fiably removed, you must stop the contest, locate home game management andask them to handle the situation. Resume play once it is handled. If game man-agement does not handle or refuses to handle the situation, then you give themone more opportunity. If they still do not handle or refuse to handle the situa-tion, the contest may then be forfeited. The forfeiture and cause for forfeituremust be reported to the state office within 12 hours of the contest.

Four Questions to be asked to determine the justification of having someone removed:

1. Did the spectator use profanity or offer personal threats of bodily harmagainst the official?

2. Did the spectator ever leave the stands and come on the playing surface?

3. Did the spectator do or say anything to disrupt the game in any other waybesides intimidating the official?

4. Did this situation have to be handled in this manner or could this situationhave been handled in a better way?

Spectator Management Policy


NOTES


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