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It is
very important that the base umpire assume the proper starting position
with a runner on 1st base. This starting position is
particularly critical when it comes to pick-offs at 1st base. If the
umpire is too "deep" or too close to 2nd base to start,
he/she will never be able to get a proper angle for the pick-off at 1st
base and will end up looking up the back end of the play at 1st.
Assuming that the base umpire is in the correct starting position,
he/she will be focused on the pitcher prior to the pick-off. As he/she
sees the pitcher begin to throw to 1st base in a pickoff
attempt, there are two acceptable methods of covering the play. These two methods
differ only in the steps taken by the umpire as he/she moves into
position for the play, and either of the following two procedures is
acceptable:
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The umpire
will take a quick step with his/her left foot, moving in
the direction of the foul line. After taking this initial step,
the umpire will turn (pivoting on his/her right foot), face the
play, and set for the call.
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The umpire will take two quick steps
starting with his/her right foot, moving in the direction of the
foul line. After taking two steps forward (right followed by left),
the umpire will turn (pivoting on his/her right foot), face the
play, and set for the call. The preceding two techniques are very
similar; the basic difference being which foot begins the pick-off
move. The second alternative allows the umpire to take one extra
step towards the foul line before turning (by pivoting on his/her
right foot) and facing the play. As mentioned previously, either of
the preceding two techniques is acceptable in covering pick-off at 1st
base.
As was the case with steal plays, it is
imperative that the umpire be completely stopped and set for the
pick-off play at 1stbase. His/her body should be facing the play, and it
would be best if the umpire is set with his/her hands on his/her knees
for this play. Angle is critical for pick-offs, and, it is very
important that the umpire set up in the proper starting position and
that he/she move, towards the foul line for the pick-off. It is possible
that the catcher may try to pick off the runner at 1st base with a quick
throw following a pitch. If this should happen, the base umpire's
movements would be virtually the same as just described for a pick-off
move by the pitcher.
Occasionally the runner on 1st base may get into a rundown after a
pick-off attempt. If this occurs, it would be handled by the base and
plate umpires as
indicated here (click),
only the base umpire will stay on the outside.
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