Umpire focus

Question
QUESTION: I know watching on TV is not like being there, but, it seems to me too many umpires are making calls made more on where the ball is caught and not where it is crossing the plate either at the very front or the back of the plate. I swear if someone set up cameras over the plate and two the side of the batter, I think there may be as many as 33% of calls made wrong!!
My question is: are umpires not supposed to focus on where the ball is in relation to the plate and forget everything else or is there too much emphasis on where the ball ends up?

ANSWER: Thanks for the question....Interesting thought you have.  You may be partially right but remember the camera angles on TV are totally skewed.

But in answer to your question, we are supposed to call the ball going over that plate.  I am certified through Triple A & also do a good bit of high school training & NCAA division 1.  But just like people question my strike zone sometimes, I just call the best game I can every day I am behind the plate...We all strive for perfection but some people would even boo God if He were there & He was perfect...lol

Just part of the game....Thanks again for the question....

Andy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Have you been to any high level umpire clinics in your long career and what is taught as to making sure you are seeing the ball in relation to the plate and are you supposed to ignore the catcher altogether or do they actually play a part in the decision of balls and strikes?

Answer
This is my 40th year, over 25 in NFHS, 18 in D1 college, & 12 in pros.  I have been to hundreds of clinics including upper level very detailed clinics w/ deep mechanic & rules discussions in my career.

We are generally taught to set up on the inside of the plate on the batter's side w/ our chin at the catcher's shoulder.  Of course there are exceptions when the catcher sets up more inside than me & I have to set outside, the catcher jumps up, he is very eradic, etc...I work w/ my catcher & try to make him as comfortable as he can be & me still make the calls that I need to see but sometimes you get one that's just a pain to work with.

Most every catcher is willing to "adjust" a little as needed to get the best calls that day for him & his pitcher.  Most will even ask, what can I do to help you, you know it will be a great day then...

After I am set, umpires make a point to not move their head for any reason, any reason although we will move our eyes to follow the ball to the mit.

Thanks again for the question....Are you a coach, umpire, or a parent?  Just wondering...

Andy