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Online now: 2 members: Matty507, TABLE SETTER 11; 66 anonymousDiscussion: Stike mat issues, can\'t wait.
| Posted | Discussion |
| Jan. 28, 2008 THECAT 65 posts | Stike mat issues, can't wait. With the strike mat being mobile and/or not fixed. Can't wait for the calls by the already confused senior officials. Example of a smart catcher gently kicking the mat toward the field of play in order to get advantage on a force play at home. The plate official is watching the play in the field and would not see a catcher edge the mat toward the field of play. The mat may be just moved by the batter/runner or home plate official, but the advantage of being closer to the play makes for a distinct advantage that smart players will use against the official. It is not defined as a judgement call but the SSUSA and other organizations who adobpt this may need to address it BEFORE IT ESCALATES INTO MORE HEATED ARGUEMENTS. THE ISSUE IS NOT JUST AS SIMPLE AS IT LOOKS AS A RULE CHANGE. |
| Jan. 28, 2008 Fred Scerra Men's 80 542 posts | Yes that could be a problem. If you use the heavy rubber mat they used in Canada it shouldn't be a problem. We use a very light mat indoors and it moves quite a bit just from the ball hitting it never mind someone kicking it. |
| Jan. 29, 2008 ShaneV Men's 55 393 posts | First time I saw this kind of mat was St. George (NSA 2006). It was anchored at the tail, not sure how but that sucker was heavy and did not move. Looked like they burried a semi and only the mud flap was showing. It seemed to be about 20x36. Liked it so much we've used something similar in NSA Senior League and Tournaments in WA. I found horse stall mats at the farm supply (4'x6'x.5"), cut them into 4 mats 18x32.5, they have dimples on the under side and smooth on the top. They hold in place quite well. I'll have to cut some new ones this year for SSUSA dimensions. The only thing I don't like about them is lugging them around! Pitchers I've polled like 'em. As an official I like the thickness - the bounce makes it pretty clear when it catches an edge. All batters hate the pitch that hits the front edge and bounces straight up! |
| Jan. 30, 2008 taits Men's 65 4548 posts | Hey Hernandez, I'll be sure to let the ump know you may have plans on using this strategy if we ever cross paths. I don't think Henry, Cal or Rich would approve. None play that many tournaments anyway. Might see you in Tulare though. Hope I'm wrong about the mat. |
