Umpire to Umpire Communications

Consistent communications during games will help you and your fellow umpires remain alert, stay in synch on the game situation and anticipate calls.

The Plate Umpire initiates the signals and the Base Umpire flashes back a response.  As a Plate Umpire, make eye contact with your partner(s) at every new batter and whenever the situation changes (e.g. after a steal).

The following videos show the most common signals for communicating with one another while maintaining a smooth game flow.

Come back each month during the 2016 season (Feb – June) for new videos and explanations.

Feb:  Checking and confirming the count on the batter

Mar:  Confirming number of outs (“flashing outs”)

Apr:  Infield fly in effect: baseball; softball

May: Requesting help and responding to a checked swing

Back to Home or Videos