Umpire to Umpire Signals
Pictures to be added later.
Introduction:
The umpires who work the game, either as a two man, three man or four man crew have a number of signals they use between them to signal certain circumstances, possible events and plays. These signals are agreed upon at the pre-game conference. This conference will ensure the team (umpires) are on the same page at all times during the game.
Infield Fly: There are two basic signals used for the infield fly. One is the touching of the cap, with the right hand, while pointing upward with the first finger. A variation is to use a closed fist when there are none out. The other method is to touch the right hand to the chest. This is echoed back to insure all members of the crew are aware of a possible infield fly situation.
Time Play: The left wrist is touched with the first two fingers of the right hand. Note the use of two fingers touching the wrist. In Baseball Canada signals, one finger on the wrist indicates 1 out. Pointing at home plate is also done to indicate the plate umpire is staying home for the possible time play.
Rotation: There are a number of ways this gets indicated. Plate umpire points, with the left hand, towards third which is echoed by the base umpire pointing to first. This is then, if the play develops, by the plate umpire stating "I've got third if he comes" , and then, as he moves to the cutout stating "I've got third." Make sure there is a play developing before verbalizing any signal.
What's your count?: When you have your partners attention you can use your right hand to touch the top of your cap.
# of Outs: The right arm is pointed downward and the palm facing outward with the number of fingers extened indicating the number of outs. This can also be indicated, using Baseball Canada rules, by touch the wrist of the left hand with 1 finger for one out, then 2 fingers at the ellbow of the left arm for two out. Another option is to use the right hand in front of the chest with one finger extended for 1 out and 2 fingers for two out.
On the Ball / Line: In situations with a runner on first with a possible first to third, the base umpire is inside. If a possible fair-foul ball is hit down the right field line, for example, the plate umpire must make the call and cannot hustle down to third. "I've got the Ball" for the left field line, "I'm on the Line" for the right field line.
Rundowns: If you go to assist your partner on a rundown play make sure you communicate by declaring "I've got this half". Wait until you are in postion to actually have the half before declaring. The first umpire handling the rundown must handle the entire rundown until you get there and declare. Do not move in until the play is moving away from you.
