April 27, 2012

Umpire's touchy hands

During a game the other night, one of the announcers finally spoke about something that always bothered me: the way some umpires put a hand on a catcher's back during a pitch. You've got to be kidding.

They were talking about a catcher whose name I missed. Apparently, he said an umpire pushed him as he was trying to make a catch. There didn't seem to be an end to the story but I was glad to finally hear it mentioned. Duh, of course it sucks to have another person's hand on your back as you're trying to make an athletic move.

Are the umpires so old and feeble that they can't stand on their own? I mean, what the hell is this about? They should definitely keep their hands off the players.

Anyone?

2 comments:

cm said...

I agree. It is not only distracting, but possibly dangerous when there is a rock hard ball coming at you at 95mph.

writenow said...

From Annie:

From MLB site ask the umpire:

I have noticed throughout the years that several of you guys like to rest your hand on the catcher's back. Do you ask the catcher if this is OK or is this something he is expected to tolerate so the umpire is more comfortable and has a better view behind the plate?
-- Cindie from Cullman, Alabama

McClelland: When I first started doing it, I asked the catcher if it was bothering him and he said no, he really didn't feel it. When I do it, I put my hand on him very, very lightly, I am not sure now he even notices it's back there. But it kind of gives me an idea on if he's moving outside or inside so I know which direction he is going to go. I know a lot of guys do it but I have never heard of a catcher saying it bothers him. Their attention is on the pitcher and the pitch, calling it and catching it. If there was a time that an umpire pushed on him or was dragging him, then yes, [the catcher might have a complaint]. But in my 20 years I have never heard of a problem with it.

I agree with you, I don't think it should be allowed. I guess there isn't a problem with it or certainly by now they would have a rule forbidding it.

A