2 Man Mechanics

Two-Man Umpire Mechanics

The two-man umpire system is the standard for most amateur baseball and softball games. It requires coordination and communication between the plate umpire (PU) and the base umpire (BU) to effectively cover all plays. Below is a breakdown of responsibilities and positioning for each umpire in various game situations. Refer to this document for a full breakdown of two-man mechanics.

General Responsibilities

Plate Umpire (PU)

Calls balls and strikes.

Covers fair/foul calls on balls hit down the lines to the front of the bases.

Watches for catcher’s interference, balks, and batter interference.

Covers plays at home plate.

Rotates to cover third base when the base umpire moves to cover a play at second.

Base Umpire (BU)

Positions based on runner situations (A, B, or C position).

Calls plays at first, second, and third base when in position.

Watches for illegal pitches, balks, and runners leaving early.

Assists on fair/foul calls beyond the bases.

Positioning Based on Runner Situations

No Runners On (A Position - First Base Line Extended)

BU stands in foul territory near first base.

Responsible for all plays on the bases.

Moves into the infield to take plays at first base and rotate accordingly.

Runner on First (B Position - Between First and Second Base)

BU stands inside the infield, slightly behind and to the left of the second baseman.

Covers plays at second base and assists with plays at first and third.

PU covers plays at home and rotates to third if BU moves to second.

Runners on First and Second or Bases Loaded (C Position - Between Second and Third Base)

BU stands inside the infield, slightly behind and to the left of the shortstop.

Responsible for plays at second and third base.

PU covers home plate and may rotate to third base as needed.

Common Situations and Responsibilities

Ground Balls

BU watches for force plays at second and calls plays at first.

PU watches for plays at the plate and any obstruction/interference.

Fly Balls

PU is responsible for fly balls to the outfield unless BU goes out to make a call.

BU covers runners tagging up and advancing.

Steals and Pickoffs

BU covers steals of second and third base.

PU may assist on calls at third if BU is blocked.

Trouble Balls (Deep Fly Balls, Line Drives, or Balls Near the Fence)

BU may go out to rule on fair/foul or home run calls.

PU adjusts to cover all runners and plays at the bases.

Communication and Signals

Use hand signals to indicate coverage responsibilities.

Make eye contact before each pitch to confirm responsibilities.

Verbally communicate on rotations and unusual plays.

Final Thoughts

A well-coordinated two-man system ensures efficient and accurate calls while maintaining game flow. By understanding responsibilities, positioning, and communication, umpires can effectively manage the game and ensure fairness for all participants.