ase umpires today, working standard mechanics, start every inning off the diamond, in position A. After base runners become part of the game, the umpire has to abandon his relatively safe location one step in foul ground, 10-12 feet behind the first baseman, and become part of the infield. Once there, timing, positioning, and a feel for the game become crucial for the umpire's success. Over the next few weeks, I will be examining issues concerning base umpires once they hit positions B (right side of the diamond) and C (left side of the diamond). At first, I will concentrate on two-person mechanics, although later I will include some issues concerning three and four-person crews.

Continued...