- Jun 1, 2015
- 501
- 43
As a 2nd-year HS umpire (but I've done it longer for youth levels), we were/are instructed NEVER to initiate contact with a catcher in their catching position, etc. Just doesn't seem right/no need for it. The only time I'll contact a catcher is in the event a foul ball hits them/ricochets off them and I feel they need a minute to gather themselves. I'll tap their shoulder and say, "Take your time, I've got it" and I'll walk the ball out to the pitcher. Aside from that, the less contact, the better for everyone's sake.