The Ready Position

The “Ready Position” is a starting position that replaces the “rolling start” and the “set start” for umpires.

As the pitch is delivered (break of the hands) assume a stance much like an outfielder on defence.  Face home plate, with your feet staggered and about shoulder width apart, knees and back should be slightly bent with the hands held in front of the body at high thigh or waist level.

With the release of the ball, just shift your weight to the balls of your feet.  If the ball is hit, use this position to move quickly to where you want to go.  If the ball is not hit, relax and be ready to get “Ready”.  It has been found that umpires who use this position are able to move out of the way of a hit ball more quickly.  The use of this position in all situations also provides consistency in our mechanics.

The “Ready” position does not replace the set position which is used when seeing the play, however, now when setting, it is recommended that you do not place your hands on your knees but that you set by bending the knees slightly and placing you hands higher up on the thighs.  Using this higher set position will take the strain off your knees and not lock you into position quite so tightly.  Remember to keep your eye on the ball, focus on the play, hesitate and then make your call.  If necessary move to your next position should play continue.

The sequence on a hit would be:  Ready during the pitch; move on the hit to get an angle; take the high set position to watch the play; make the call, coming out of the high set by removing the hands off the thighs, standing erect and making the proper and correct signal.