Arlington, Virginia
Umpire to Umpire Conference

Prior to the start of the game, the umpires should go over several things to make sure they understand the work methodology of each other and agree on a common approach where there are differences.  The process is simply one of reminding one another of mechanics and other issues.  The Umpire-in-Chief (plate umpire) takes control of this meeting.  This meeting usually takes five minutes or less and can be done as the umpires are getting gear on.  Following are some items that can be included in discussion.
  • fair/foul coverage
  • tagups/touches
  • fly balls to outfield
  • fly balls to infield
  • coverage of third base
  • live ball (restart after foul/dead balls)
  • batted ball hits batter while in box
  • half swing (checked swing)
  • umpire positioning
  • signals