The Two Umpire System

From time to time as a community umpire you may have to opportunity to work with another umpire in a game, usually as a base umpire.

When you are the base umpire working with another umpire, you will need to work together to ensure that you have all plays covered, and almost as important, that you both do not make a call on the same play.

Whilst there is a comprehensive manual for the two-umpire system which will be taught during the Association Umpire accreditation program, this is a simplified version of the base umpire responsibilities.

Very simply, as the base umpire, you will have all calls on all runners on the bases. The plate umpire will look after all plays at home plate and all fair / foul decisions.

Your starting position is just outside of the foul line beyond first base. You should be behind the first baseman, but no closer than 5 metres from first base if he moves in front of it.

From this position, the following plays can occur and these are your responsibilities

From this position, the following plays can occur and these are your responsibilities:

Ball hit to the infield

Turn with the ball and when you know where the fielder will throw the ball take a few steps in that direction. Ensure you have stopped before the play is made and make a call.

Base hit to the outfield

Turn with the ball and try to watch all runners touch each base. You will have all plays on all runners at all bases, so once you believe a play will be made at a base, move a few steps towards that base. Ensure you have stopped before the play is made and make a call.

Be aware that you may have multiple runners and the defence may attempt to make plays on multiple runners, so stay somewhat close to the mound.

Remember that a good angle is much more important than trying to get close to the play.

Fly ball to the outfield

Turn with the ball and watch the fielders attempt the catch. If the ball is caught, signal the catch and then react if the runners are trying to advance after the catch.

In all of these situations, the plate umpire will have responsibility for calling a ball fair or foul.

There may be situations where your partner will initiate a discussion with you about a play, especially when there is a rule or playing condition involved. In these situations, the plate umpire will never question your judgement, but rather ask for what you saw and together you’ll make the call that is required.

If you are unsure about what to call, let the play continue as it is easier to reset it, rather than having to guess where runners would have ended up if you stopped play. You can then consult with the Plate Umpire to discuss the play.

Remember that the plate umpire will usually be an experienced umpire who will call “time” if a rule requires it.