Tuesday, January 6, 2004

The Garage: Tips for 1-man mechanics

By Chris Thomas
Contributing Editor

Due to overwhelming response this past month from NBUA members wishing for me to elaborate on one umpire mechanics, I will do just that.

When thinking of working a game with only yourself, do you dread it, or look forward to a great learning experience?

We need to take these games and test ourselves with them. How far can I get out into the infield for a call in the outfield on a fly ball? Can I get in good position for a play at second on a double? What kind of angle can I create for the play at first? Using these games to hone your skills for the upcoming 2-man games will give you an edge and impress your partner with how much hustle you have. Let's face it, you have to run, run, run when working alone, why should we let down when we have a partner?

This is a great opportunity to practice creating angles on plays, and getting out as far as you can on a play and still being set to make the call. These things are essential for upper level ball. There are no real set mechanics in working by yourself. There is no manual or guideline. You as the umpire in chief decide where the most important place to be is, where the best angle is, and how close you can get.

Hustle is the key. Exaggerate your mechanics and rotations so that it enhances your umpiring for when you do have a partner. If the coaches see you working hard, they rarely will complain about much. The only other advice I would give on this subject is this; at the plate meeting bring to the coaches attention that you are in fact working alone here, and would love to be everywhere at once, but since you cannot work magic, relax a little and lets play baseball. We have all been there, make sure you make these games educational for you, and most importantly, FUN!

If you have mechanics questions, contact Chris at the Garage.