90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics
Four Umpire
Mechanics
90-Foot Diamond
Use in conjunction with LLHQ text document available in
the Field Mechanics Manual (90 Foot Diamond)
List of Revisions
Rev
Slide
Major Change(s)
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics
BASIC INSTRUCTIONS TO UMPIRES WORKING THE FOUR MAN SYSTEM .......................................................................iii
BASIC PRECEPTS FOR ANY UMPIRING SYSTEM ................................................................................................................iii
Fair/Foul Responsibilities ....................................................................................................................................................................1
No Runners on Base, Starting Positions...............................................................................................................................................2
No Runners on Base, Outfield Fly Ball Responsibilities .....................................................................................................................3
No Runners on Base, Fly Ball to U2’s AOR........................................................................................................................................4
ROTATION # 2...............................................................................................................................................................................4
No Runners on Base, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR........................................................................................................................................5
PU TO FIRST # 1............................................................................................................................................................................ 5
No Runners on Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR........................................................................................................................................6
ROTATION # 1...............................................................................................................................................................................6
Runner on First Base (only), Starting Positions ...................................................................................................................................7
Runner on First Base (only), Outfield Fly Ball Responsibilities..........................................................................................................8
Runner on First Base (only), Fly Ball to U1’s AOR ............................................................................................................................9
PU TO FIRST # 2............................................................................................................................................................................ 9
Runner on First Base (only), Fly Ball to U3’s AOR ..........................................................................................................................10
ROTATION # 5............................................................................................................................................................................. 10
Runner on Second Base (only), Starting Positions.............................................................................................................................11
Runner on Second Base (only), Outfield Fly Ball Responsibilities ...................................................................................................12
Runner on Second Base (only), Fly Ball to U1’s AOR......................................................................................................................13
Runner on Second Base (only), Fly Ball to U3’s AOR......................................................................................................................14
SLIDE PLAY ................................................................................................................................................................................14
Runner on Third Base (only), Starting Positions................................................................................................................................15
Runner on Third Base (only), Outfield Fly Ball Responsibilities ......................................................................................................16
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U2’s AOR, BALL NOT CAUGHT..................................................................................17
ROTATION # 4............................................................................................................................................................................. 17
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U2’s AOR, BALL CAUGHT...........................................................................................18
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U1’s AOR.........................................................................................................................19
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, BALL NOT CAUGHT..................................................................................20
ROTATION # 3............................................................................................................................................................................. 20
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, BALL CAUGHT...........................................................................................21
Runners on First and Second Base, Starting Positions.......................................................................................................................22
OUTFIELD FLY BALL RESPONSIBILITIES............................................................................................................................22
Runners on First and Second Base, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR ................................................................................................................23
Runners on First and Second Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Less than Two Outs, Ball Caught.........................................................24
ROTATION # 7............................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Runners on First and Second Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Less than Two Outs, Ball NOT Caught................................................25
SLIDE PLAY ................................................................................................................................................................................25
Runners on First and Third Base, Starting Positions..........................................................................................................................26
OUTFIELD FLY BALL RESPONSIBILITIES............................................................................................................................26
Runners on First and Third Base, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR...................................................................................................................27
Runners on First and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Ball NOT Caught.....................................................................................28
ROTATION # 6............................................................................................................................................................................. 28
Runners on First and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Ball Caught..............................................................................................29
Runners on Second and Third, Starting Positions ..............................................................................................................................30
OUTFIELD FLY BALL RESPONSIBILITIES............................................................................................................................30
Runners on Second and Third, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR .......................................................................................................................31
Runners on Second and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR ..............................................................................................................32
Runners on Second and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Less than Two Outs, Ball NOT Caught ..............................................33
SLIDE PLAY ................................................................................................................................................................................33
Runners on First, Second and Third Base, Starting Positions ............................................................................................................ 34
OUTFIELD FLY BALL RESPONSIBILITIES............................................................................................................................34
Runners on First, Second and Third Base, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR .....................................................................................................35
Runners on First, Second and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR .....................................................................................................36
SLIDE PLAY ................................................................................................................................................................................36
Infield Line Drive and Pop Up Responsibilities.................................................................................................................................37
U2 OUT.........................................................................................................................................................................................37
Infield Line Drive and Pop Up Responsibilities.................................................................................................................................38
U2 IN.............................................................................................................................................................................................38
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
BASIC INSTRUCTIONS TO UMPIRES WORKING THE FOUR MAN SYSTEM
1
With no runners on base, 1st and 3rd base umpires are to position themselves with both feet in foul
territory.
2
One umpire will go out on all fly balls and line drives to the outfield, as well as on all batted balls that
have potential for trouble (out of play areas, spectator interference, etc.). Outfield coverage is not
required on line drives in the gap that are immediately read as not catchable and are not
susceptible to trouble such as spectator interference or a ground rule double.
3
Umpires going out on fly balls/line drives to the outfield should go out as far as possible, but are
cautioned to be stopped when making calls.
4
If an umpire goes out, that umpire does not return to the infield until the play is completed.
5
Whenever runner(s) are on base (other than a runner on 3rd base only), U2 will set up inside at 2nd
base. U2 may work on either side of 2nd base; depending on which side the umpire feels more
comfortable.
6
Umpires working inside at 2nd base will not go out on fly balls/line drives to the outfield.
7
Upon completion of a play where an umpire goes out on a ball, the covering umpire should not
release until the umpire who went out has returned and assumed responsibility of the runner.
8
Remember the adage, “Vacate and Occupy.” Whenever an umpire vacates his designated base,
another umpire must occupy that base.
BASIC PRECEPTS FOR ANY UMPIRING SYSTEM
1
Plate umpire is responsible for giving the pre-game conference. Follow an established, orderly
progression starting with fair/foul responsibilities, fly ball coverage in infield and outfield, signals
and positioning. An hour is not too long.
2
No umpire needs call (voice or mechanic) the obvious foul ball and the call, when made, is never
echoed by other umpires.
3
Foul balls off the batter whilst in the batter’s box may require base umpire(s) to make the call.
However, WAIT for the plate umpire to make the call and then if you are certain the batted ball was
fouled off the batter in the box, make the call - loud.
4
The umpire that will make the fair/foul call is the same umpire that will make the catch/no-catch call.
5
Anytime a base umpire goes out to make a call in the outfield, that umpire will STAY OUT. Be set
for the touch/catch by the fielder, make the call and continue moving away from the infield.
6
The second base umpire should move into the infield on the side opposite the direction of the ball
when required to come inside.
Table 1
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
or
U2
U3
U1
“Grey Area”
“Grey Area”
Diagram 1
Fair/Foul Responsibilities
PU
To front of bag.
U1
From bag and beyond and
if fouled off the batter in
the batters box.
U2
None. Except when
fouled off the batter in
the batters box.
U3
From bag and beyond
and if fouled off the
batter in the batters box.
“Grey Area” when fielder (1st baseman for U1 and 3rd baseman for U3) is
about even with the bag and PU cannot get a good look –COMMUNICATE
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1
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
or
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 2
No Runners on Base, Starting Positions
PU
U1
10-15 feet behind
normally positioned 1st
baseman.
U2
In B or C position about
10 feet into the outfield
grass. Key off the CF’s
positioning.
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U3
10-15 feet behind normally
positioned 3rd baseman.
2
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
LF
U2
CF
U2
RF
U3
U1
Remember: Take an angle away from the
fielder/ball and not direct at the fielder/ball.
Diagram 3
No Runners on Base, Outfield Fly Ball Responsibilities
PU
None
U1
RF coming toward the
line
U2
The “U”.
U3
LF coming toward the
line
All of CF,
RF coming in and going back
and to his RIGHT, and
LF coming in and going back
and to his LEFT.
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
or
U2
U3
U1
Pause. Watch BR
touch of 1st base.
Diagram 4
No Runners on Base, Fly Ball to U2’s AOR
ROTATION # 2
PU
U1
U2
Moves to 3rd base
Responsible for touch
Goes out.
cutout via foul territory; of BR at 1st base,
does NOT wait until BR pausing to read forward
has touched 2nd base.
progress of BR, when
BR commits to 2nd, then
Responsible for:
to point of the plate.
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st, and
BR at home.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
Move into the working
area on B side.
Responsible for:
BR to 2nd, and
BR back into 2nd.
4
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
or
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 5
No Runners on Base, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR
PU TO FIRST # 1
PU
U1
Moves up the 1st base
Goes out.
line in fair territory.
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st. and
BR at home.
U2
Moves into working
area on C Side via
second base side of
diamond.
Responsible for:
U3
Takes a few steps closer
to 3rd base in fair
territory. If Br
advances to 3rd, move a
step or two inside fair
territory for play at 3rd.
BR to 2nd.
Responsible for:
Heads back to home
when BR touches 2nd
base.
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BR to 3rd.
5
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
or
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 6
No Runners on Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR
ROTATION # 1
PU
U1
Moves toward 3rd
Moves toward 1st base in foul territory.
base in foul territory
reading the ball as he Responsible for:
travels down the line. BR touch of 1st, and
Moves into the 3rd
BR back into 1st.
base cutout.
When BR reaches 2nd base,
Responsible for:
Reads movement of PU down the 3rd
BR to 3rd, and
baseline and moves to the point of the
BR back into 3rd.
plate to set up for any play there and
takes 3rd baseline extended if throw is
bad.
U2
Move into working
area on B side.
U3
Goes out.
Responsible for:
BR to 2nd, and
BR back into 2nd.
Responsible for:
BR at the plate.
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 7
Runner on First Base (only), Starting Positions
PU
U1
Moves in closer to the
bag for pickoffs.
U2
Can set up in B or C. Square to
the plate on the edge of the
infield grass line. Has NO
Outfield Fly Ball responsibility.
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U3
10-15 feet behind
normally positioned 3rd
baseman.
7
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
CF
LF
RF
U2
U2
U3
U1
Remember: Take an angle away from the
fielder/ball and not direct at the fielder/ball.
Diagram 8
Runner on First Base (only), Outfield Fly Ball Responsibilities
PU
None
U1
CF moving to his LEFT, and
all of RF.
U2
None
U1 has 40% of the “60/40
split”.
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U3
CF moving FORWARD,
BACK and to his RIGHT, and
all of LF.
U3 has 60% of the “60/40
split”.
8
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U2
U3
U1
U2: Communicate with PU when
retaking responsibility for 1st.
Diagram 9
Runner on First Base (only), Fly Ball to U1’s AOR
PU TO FIRST # 2
PU
U1
U2
st
Move toward 1 base in
Goes out.
Move into working area on
fair territory.
B Side.
Has tag up at 1st.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st, and
BR back into 1st.
R1 to 2nd, and
BR to 2nd.
U3
Take a few steps toward
3rd base in foul territory.
Move 1-2 steps inside
fair territory for any
play at 3rd.
Has OT responsibility.
Responsible for:
rd
Heads home to point of the
plate when R1 passes 2nd
base.
When R1 goes to 3 ,
releases R1 to U3 and now
has BR to 2nd and BR back
to 1st. Communicate with PU
that you have the BR.
R1 to 3rd,
R1 back into 3rd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
Responsible for:
R1 at home, and
BR at home.
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U2
U1
U3
Diagram 10
Runner on First Base (only), Fly Ball to U3’s AOR
ROTATION # 5
PU
U1
rd
Moves toward 3 base in
Lines up ball/fielder with
foul territory AND into 3rd R1 if tag play develops.
base cutout.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
R1 tag up at 1st,
R1 to 3rd, and
R1 back into 1st,
rd
BR to 3 .
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
R1 at home, and
BR at home.
U2
Moves into working
area on B Side.
U3
Goes out.
Responsible for:
R1 to 2nd,
BR to 2nd.
Takes all plays at 1st
and 2nd when BR
commits to 2nd.
Heads to home when BR
commits to 2nd.
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 11
Runner on Second Base (only), Starting Positions
PU
U1
10-15 feet behind
normally positioned
1st baseman.
U2
Can set up in B or C. Square to
the plate on the edge of the
infield grass line. Has NO
Outfield Fly Ball responsibility.
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U3
10-15 feet behind
normally positioned
3rd baseman.
11
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
CF
LF
RF
U2
U2
U3
U1
Remember: Take an angle away from the
fielder/ball and not direct at the fielder/ball.
Diagram 12
Runner on Second Base (only), Outfield Fly Ball Responsibilities
PU
None
U1
CF moving to his LEFT, and
all of RF.
U2
None
U1 has 40% of the “60/40
split”.
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U3
CF moving FORWARD,
BACK and to his RIGHT, and
all of LF.
U3 has 60% of the “60/40
split”.
12
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 13
Runner on Second Base (only), Fly Ball to U1’s AOR
PU
Stays home.
U1
Goes out.
U2
Moves into the working area
on the B Side.
Has tag up of R2 at 2nd.
U3
Moves toward 3rd base in
foul territory AND into fair
territory for any play at 3rd
base.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
R2 back into 2nd,
BR touch of 1st base,
BR back into 1st, and
BR to 2nd.
R2 to 3rd,
R2 back into 3rd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
Responsible for:
R2 to home, and
BR to home.
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
Move to 3rd base
cutout when you
hear U1 say
“SLIDE!”
Tell U2 to “SLIDE!”
when BR heads to 2nd.
U2
U1
U3
Diagram 14
Runner on Second Base (only), Fly Ball to U3’s AOR
SLIDE PLAY
PU
U1
U2
Stay home.
Pivot in when U3 goes out.
Step up, turn and face the ball
Watch BR touch of 1st.
in the working area on the C
nd
Responsible for:
When BR heads to 2 ,
Side. Read U3 going out on a
communicate to U2
not catchable ball. You have
R2 at home,
“SLIDE!” You now have all all plays at 2nd and 3rd until
BR at home.
calls at 2nd base.
told to “SLIDE” by U1.
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,and
BR to 2nd (after SLIDE).
U3
Go out on a ball
that is not
catchable.
If U1 communicates,
“SLIDE”, move to 3rd base
cutout for all plays at 3rd.
Responsible for:
R2 to 3rd, and
BR to 3rd.
Note: You also have BR to 2nd
if U1 does NOT tell you to
“SLIDE!”
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
Move closer to 2nd base with a
runner on 3rd base only
U2
U1
U3
Diagram 15
Runner on Third Base (only), Starting Positions
PU
U1
10-12 feet behind
normally positioned 1st
baseman.
U2
In B or C position about
10 feet into the outfield
grass. Key off the CF’s
positioning.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
Moves in closer for
possible pick-off plays.
6-8 feet behind normally
positioned 3rd baseman.
15
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
CF
LF
U2
RF
U3
U1
Remember: Take an angle away from the
fielder/ball and not direct at the fielder/ball.
Diagram 16
Runner on Third Base (only), Outfield Fly Ball Responsibilities
PU
None
U1
RF coming toward
the line
U2
The “U”.
All of CF,
RF coming in and going back and
to his RIGHT, and
LF coming in and going back and
to his LEFT.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
LF coming toward
the line
16
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U3
U1
Glance over right
shoulder to see R3
touch at home.
Diagram 17
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U2’s AOR, BALL NOT CAUGHT
ROTATION # 4
PU
U1
U2
U3
Moves toward 3rd base in Stay in foul territory to Goes out on NOT
Move into working area on
foul territory, glance to
see BR touch of 1st
CATCHABLE ball. the B Side.
see R3 touch at home,
AND BR commit to
AND into 3rd base cutout. 2nd, then to point of
Responsible for:
Tell partners
the plate. Tell
“I’ve got third”
partners “Going
BR back into 1st,
home.”
BR to 2nd, and
Responsible for:
BR back into 2nd.
Responsible for:
R3 touch of home,
BR to 3rd, and
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 3rd.
BR back into 1st, and
BR at home.
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U1
U3
Diagram 18
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U2’s AOR, BALL CAUGHT
PU
Move to develop an
angle to see tag up
of R3 AND then to
point of plate for
play that may
develop at home.
U1
Stay in foul territory to see
BR touch of 1st.
U2
Goes out on ball that
can be caught.
U3
Move into working area on
the C Side.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st, and
BR back into 1st.
Any play that may develop
at 2nd AND 3rd if ball is
dropped.
Responsible for:
R3 tag up at 3rd,
R3 at home, and
BR at home.
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 19
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U1’s AOR
PU
Stays home.
U1
Goes out.
U2
Move into working area on B
Side.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
R3 at home, and
BR at home.
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
BR to 2nd, and
BR back into 2nd.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
Lines up tag up of R3
with ball/fielder. Move
1-2 steps into fair
territory for any play at
3rd.
Responsible for:
R3 tag up at 3rd,
R3 back into 3rd, and
BR to 3rd.
19
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U3
U1
Glance over right
shoulder to see R3
touch at home.
Diagram 20
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, BALL NOT CAUGHT
ROTATION # 3
PU
U1
U2
Moves toward 3rd base
Stay in foul territory to
Moves into working area
in foul territory, glance see BR touch of 1st AND on B Side.
to see R3 touch at
BR commit to 2nd, then
rd
home, AND into 3
to point of the plate.
Responsible for:
base cutout.
Tell partners “Going
home.”
BR to 2nd, and
Responsible for:
BR back into 2nd.
Responsible for:
R3 touch of home,
BR at 3rd, and
BR touch of 1st,
rd
BR back into 3 .
BR back into 1st, and
BR at home.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
Goes out on a not
catchable ball.
20
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U1
U3
Diagram 21
Runner on Third Base (only), Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, BALL CAUGHT
PU
Move to develop an
angle to see tag up of
R3 AND then to point
of plate for play that
may develop at home.
Responsible for:
R3 tag up at 3rd,
R3 at home, and
BR at home.
U1
Stay in foul territory to
observe possible play at
1st base.
U2
Moves into working area
on C Side.
U3
Goes out on a ball
that should be
caught.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
If ball is dropped!
BR touch of 1st, and
BR back into 1st.
R3 back into 3rd.
If ball is dropped!
BR to 2nd,
BR back into 2nd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
21
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
CF
LF
RF
U2
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 22
Runners on First and Second Base, Starting Positions
OUTFIELD FLY BALL RESPONSIBILITIES
PU
U1
None
CF moving to his LEFT, and
all of RF.
U2
None.
U1 has 40% of the “60/40
split”.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
CF moving FORWARD,
BACK and to his RIGHT,
and all of LF.
U3 has 60% of the “60/40
split”.
22
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 23
Runners on First and Second Base, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR
PU
Stays home.
U1
Goes out on the hit.
U2
Moves into working area
on the B Side.
Has tag ups at 1st and 2nd.
U3
Moves toward 3rd base
in foul territory AND
into fair territory for
any play at 3rd base.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
R1 to 2nd,
R1 back into 1st,
R2 back into 2nd, and
BR to 2nd.
R1 to 3rd,
R2 to 3rd, and
BR to 3rd.
Responsible for:
R1 at home,
R2 at home, and
BR at home.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
23
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U1
U3
Diagram 24
Runners on First and Second Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Less than Two Outs, Ball Caught
ROTATION # 7
PU
U1
U2
U3
rd
Moves toward 3 base
Stay in foul territory to Move into working area Goes out on a ball that
in foul territory AND
observe tag up of R1
on B Side.
should be caught.
rd
into 3 base cutout.
AND then to the point
of the plate.
Responsible for:
Communicates to
partners
Communicates to
R1 to 2nd (on the tag up),
“Going to third!”
partners
R2 back into 2nd,
“Going home!”
AND IF DROPPED
Responsible for:
All plays at 1st and 2nd.
Responsible for:
R2 tag up,
R2 to 3rd, (on the tag up) R1 tag up,
AND IF DROPPED
R1 back into 1st,
rd
All plays at 3 .
AND IF DROPPED
All plays at home.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
Move to 3rd base
cutout when you
hear U1 say
“SLIDE!”
Tell U2 to “SLIDE!”
when BR heads to 2nd.
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 25
Runners on First and Second Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Less than Two Outs, Ball NOT Caught
SLIDE PLAY
PU
U1
U2
U3
Stay home.
Pivot in when U3
Step up, turn and face the ball in
Go out on a ball that
goes out. Watch BR the working area on the C Side.
is not catchable.
st
Responsible for:
touch of 1 . When
Read U3 going out on a not
BR heads to 2nd,
catchable ball. You have all plays
R2 at home,
communicate to U2
at 2nd and 3rd until told to “SLIDE”
R1 at home, and
“SLIDE!” You now by U1.
BR at home.
have all calls at 2nd
If U1 communicates, “SLIDE”,
base.
move to 3rd base cutout for all
plays at 3rd.
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
R1 back into 1st, and
BR to 2nd.
Responsible for:
R2 to 3rd,
R1 to 2nd,
R1 to 3rd, and
BR to 3rd.
Note: You also have BR to 2nd if
U1 does NOT tell you to
“SLIDE!”
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
CF
LF
RF
U2
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 26
Runners on First and Third Base, Starting Positions
OUTFIELD FLY BALL RESPONSIBILITIES
PU
U1
None
CF moving to his LEFT, and
all of RF.
U2
None.
U1 has 40% of the “60/40
split”.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
CF moving FORWARD,
BACK and to his RIGHT, and
all of LF.
U3 has 60% of the “60/40
split”.
26
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 27
Runners on First and Third Base, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR
PU
Stays home.
Responsible for:
R3 at home,
R1 at home, and
BR at home.
U1
Goes out on the hit.
U2
Moves into working area
on B Side for all plays at
1st and 2nd.
Has tag up at 1st.
U3
Moves toward 3rd base in
foul territory to line up
the tag of R3. Move 1-2
steps into fair territory
for any play at 3rd.
Responsible for:
Has tag up at 3rd.
R1 tag up at 1st,
R1 back into 1st,
R1 to 2nd,
R1 back into 2nd,
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
BR to 2nd, and
BR back into 2nd.
Responsible for:
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
R3 tag up at 3rd,
R3 back into 3rd,
R1 to 3rd,
R1 back into 3rd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
27
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U1
U3
Glance over right
shoulder to see R3
touch at home.
Diagram 28
Runners on First and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Ball NOT Caught
ROTATION # 6
PU
U1
U2
U3
rd
Moves toward 3 base
Stay in foul territory to Moves into working
Goes out on a ball that
in foul territory, glance observe BR touch of 1st area on B Side.
is not catchable.
nd
to see R3 touch at
AND BR commit to 2 ,
home, AND into 3rd
then to the point of the
Responsible for:
base cutout.
plate.
R1 to 2nd,
Communicates to
Communicates to
R1 back into 2nd,
partners:
partners:
BR to 2nd, and
“I’ve got third”
“Going home!”
BR back into 2nd.
Responsible for:
R3 touch of home,
R1 to 3rd,
R1 back into 3rd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
R1 at home, and
BR at home.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U1
U3
Diagram 29
Runners on First and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Ball Caught
PU
Stays home.
U1
Stay in foul territory to
observe BR touch of 1st
U2
Moves into working
area on the C Side.
Has tag up at 1st.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
R1 to 2nd,
R1 to3rd,
R3 back into 3rd, and
BR to 3rd.
AND IF DROPPED
All plays at 2nd and 3rd.
U3
Goes out on a ball that
should be caught.
Has tag up at 3rd.
Responsible for:
R1 at home,
R3 at home, and
BR at home.
AND IF DROPPED
All plays at home.
R1 tag up at 1st,
R1 back into 1st.
AND IF DROPPED
All plays at 1st.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
CF
LF
RF
U2
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 30
Runners on Second and Third, Starting Positions
OUTFIELD FLY BALL RESPONSIBILITIES
PU
U1
None
CF moving to his LEFT, and
all of RF.
U2
None
U1 has 40% of the “60/40
split”.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
CF moving FORWARD,
BACK and to his RIGHT,
and all of LF.
U3 has 60% of the “60/40
split”.
30
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 31
Runners on Second and Third, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR
PU
Stays home.
Responsible for:
R3 at home,
R2 at home, and
BR at home.
U1
Goes out.
U2
Moves into working area
on B Side for all plays at
1st and 2nd.
Has tag up at 2nd.
U3
Moves toward 3rd base in
foul territory to line up
the tag of R3. Move 1-2
steps into fair territory
for any play at 3rd.
Responsible for:
Has tag up at 3rd.
R2 back into 2nd,
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
BR to 2nd, and
BR back into 2nd.
Responsible for:
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
R3 back into 3rd,
R2 to 3rd,
R2 back into 3rd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
31
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U1
U3
Diagram 32
Runners on Second and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR
PU
Move to develop an
angle to see tag up of
R3 AND then to point
of plate for play that
may develop at home.
U1
Stay in foul territory to
observe action at 1st
base (in case ball is
dropped).
U2
Move into working area
on C Side.
Responsible for:
R2 tag up at 2nd,
R2 back into 2nd, and
R2 to 3rd (on tag up)
AND IF DROPPED
All plays at 2nd and 3rd.
Responsible for:
R3 tag up at 3rd, and
R3 at home (on tag up).
AND IF DROPPED
All plays at home.
IF DROPPED
All plays at 1st.
U3
Goes out on a ball that
should be caught.
Responsible for:
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
Move to 3rd base
cutout when you
hear U1 say
“SLIDE!”
Tell U2 to “SLIDE!”
when BR heads to 2nd.
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 33
Runners on Second and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR, Less than Two Outs, Ball NOT Caught
SLIDE PLAY
PU
U1
U2
U3
Stay home.
Pivot in when U3
Step up, turn and face the ball in
Go out on a ball that
goes out. Watch BR the working area C Side. Read U3 is not catchable.
Responsible for:
touch of 1st. When
going out on a not catchable ball.
nd
BR heads to 2 ,
You have all plays at 2nd and 3rd
R3 at home,
communicate to U2
until told to “SLIDE” by U1.
R2 at home, and
“SLIDE!” You now
If U1 communicates, “SLIDE”,
BR at home.
have all calls at 2nd
move to 3rd base cutout for all
base.
plays at 3rd.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
BR to 2nd, and
BR back into 2nd.
R2 to 3rd,
R2 back into 3rd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
Note: You also have BR to 2nd if
U1 does NOT tell you to
“SLIDE!”
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
CF
LF
RF
U2
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 34
Runners on First, Second and Third Base, Starting Positions
OUTFIELD FLY BALL RESPONSIBILITIES
PU
U1
U2
None
CF moving to his LEFT, and
None
all of RF.
U1 has 40% of the “60/40
split”.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
U3
CF moving FORWARD,
BACK and to his RIGHT,
and all of LF.
U3 has 60% of the “60/40
split”.
34
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 35
Runners on First, Second and Third Base, Fly Ball to U1’s AOR
PU
Stays home.
Responsible for:
R3 at home,
R2 at home,
R1 at home, and
BR at home.
U1
Goes out.
U2
Moves into working area
on B Side for all plays at
1st and 2nd.
U3
Moves toward 3rd base in foul
territory to line up the tag of
R3. Move 1-2 steps into fair
territory for any play at 3rd.
Has tag ups at 1st and 2nd.
Has tag up at 3rd.
Responsible for:
Responsible for:
R2 tag up at 2nd,
R2 back into 2nd,
R1 tag up at 1st,
R1 back into 1st,
R1 to 2nd,
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
BR to 2nd, and
BR back into 2nd.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
R3 tag up at 3rd,
R3 back into 3rd,
R2 to 3rd,
R2 back into 3rd,
R1 to 3rd,
R1 back into 3rd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
35
90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
Move to 3rd base
cutout when you
hear U1 say
“SLIDE!”
Tell U2 to “SLIDE!”
when BR heads to 2nd.
U2
U3
U1
Diagram 36
Runners on First, Second and Third Base, Fly Ball to U3’s AOR
SLIDE PLAY
PU
U1
U2
Stay home.
Pivot in when U3 goes Step up, turn and face the ball in
out. Watch BR touch
the working area C Side. Read U3
Responsible for:
of 1st. When BR heads going out on a not catchable ball.
to 2nd, communicate to You have all plays at 2nd and 3rd
R3 at home,
U2 “SLIDE!” You
until told to “SLIDE” by U1.
R2 at home,
now have all calls at 2nd
If U1 communicates, “SLIDE”,
R1 at home, and
base.
move to 3rd base cutout for all
BR at home.
plays at 3rd.
Responsible for:
BR touch of 1st,
BR back into 1st,
BR to 2nd, and
BR back into 2nd.
U3
Go out on a ball that
is not catchable.
Responsible for:
R2 to 3rd,
R2 back into 3rd,
R1 to 2nd,
R1 back into 2nd,
R1 to 3rd,
R1 back into 3rd,
BR to 3rd, and
BR back into 3rd.
Note: You also have BR to 2nd if
U1 does NOT tell you to
“SLIDE!”
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
U2
F6
F4
F5
F3
U3
U1
F1
Coverage is for Line Drives when
U2 is OUT.
Diagram 37
Infield Line Drive and Pop Up Responsibilities
U2 OUT
POP-UPS
PU
Has all.
U1
None
U2
None
U3
None
LINE DRIVES
PU
U1
Pitcher and fielders moving F3 and F4 coming in and
toward 2nd base.
toward the line.
U2
None
U3
F5 and F6 coming in and
toward the line.
Note: In most catch/no catch situations – the umpire who has the view of the ball going into the open glove will
make the call. DISCUSS AT THE PRE GAME CONFERENCE.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
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90 Foot Diamond
Four-Umpire Mechanics (Rotation System)
F6
F4
U2
F5
F3
U3
U1
F1
Coverage is for Line Drives when U2 is IN.
Diagram 38
Infield Line Drive and Pop Up Responsibilities
U2 IN
POP-UPS
PU
Pitcher and catcher, as well as fair/foul
areas when popped up in that area.
U1
None
U2
All, except pitcher and catcher
U3
None
LINE DRIVES
PU
Pitcher
U1
U2
F3: any ball hit
F4 and F6: ALL balls hit to them, and
DIRECT to him or that
takes him to his LEFT. F3: any ball hit that requires him to
dive to his RIGHT, and
U3
F5: any ball hit DIRECT
to him or that takes him to
his RIGHT.
F5: any ball that requires him to dive
to his LEFT.
Note: In most catch/no catch situations – the umpire who has the view of the ball going into the open glove will
make the call. DISCUSS AT THE PRE GAME CONFERENCE.
D:\My Documents\Baseball Rulebook\4 Umpire Mechanics for the 90 Foot Diamond.doc-
38