In-field Fly call

Question
At two separate ASA tournaments umpires made an infield fly rule call in the following manner - they raised their right hand and pointed their index finger into the sky.  They never verbalized the call until after it was over.  I questioned it both times - the ASA rule book says the umpire will declare an infield fly - both times they told me that they didn't have to say anything and that the signal was and is as I described it.  This has led to quite a debate with other coaches having various experiences.  What is the correct procedure?

Answer
Hi John,

Well our umpire manual tells us the procedure for an infield fly is rt arm above head w/ fist closed and verbalize "infield fly".  ASA 2009 pg 225

also pg 241 when an infield fly is judged by the umpire...give the infield fly signal...and verbalize "infield fly"

The IF is meant to protect the offense from cheap dps, the offense has to know what's going on.  In my opinion this puts the offense at risk by not using the proper mechanics.  The mechanic is the mechanic and how tough is it to say "Infield Fly" IMO that's just laziness and the sign of a mediocre or worse umpire.

I have no idea why any ASA umpire would think just the signal is enough and it's the wrong signal to boot "by the book."  Tells me they are doing their own thing, not ASA mechanics.  You said these were tournies, next time talk to the UIC, tournies should be run "by-the book"

mark