WANNA WEDGIE? - I failed to use the wedge mechanic correctly!

As a kid, wedgies took on a whole new meaning. As an umpire, it is a mechanic used to better position yourself for tag plays at home plate. It is a technique that requires intuition, good movement, additional position correction, and often just plain old dumb luck. Yesterday in Delta the play presented itself and I took advantage of getting on the third-base line extended, instead of the more common first baseline extended. The throw came in and the catcher moved up the line to get the throw and tried to apply the tag after the runner slid by towards home. Was there an actual tag in time for an out? All evidences say no, but as it happened I wished that I had just stayed put over on the traditional third base side and I would have had a much clearer view. Did I get the call right? Yes. Did I have the best angle possible? No way. And now I get to watch, re-watch, and re-watch this video again to try to train my mind so that I can react differently when that play happens the next time. Is the wedge a good technique? Absolutely. Did I use it as prescribed... Nope. I did not initially set up well behind the plate and then let the play take me to the best position. Instead, I moved to the traditional position and then realized this was perfect for the wedge. I know that many of those reading/watching this are shaking their head in shame at my movements?... But I will keep trying, experimenting, and perfecting the mechanic. And in my quest for self-mastery, I'm going to figure this out. Make it a great game! Michael Leavitt - Orem, Utah

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