Umpire Certification Umpire Communication and Signals

Question 1

What is the standard mechanic used by an umpire to indicate a strike?

Accepted Answer

Raise the right hand in a fist motion and call 'Strike!'

Answer

The standard strike mechanic is to raise the right hand in a fist or punching motion while verbally calling 'Strike!' to communicate the call clearly.

Question 2

How does a base umpire properly signal that a runner is safe?

Accepted Answer

Extend both arms outward horizontally with palms down and call 'Safe!'

Answer

The safe signal involves extending both arms outward horizontally with palms facing down, accompanied by the verbal call 'Safe!' to confirm no out was made.

Question 3

What is the proper mechanic for signaling a foul ball?

Accepted Answer

Raise one or both arms above the head and call 'Foul!'

Answer

Umpires signal foul balls by raising one or both arms above the head while verbally calling 'Foul!' so the call is highly visible to all players and coaches.

Question 4

When an umpire calls 'Time,' what is the proper hand signal?

Accepted Answer

Raise both hands above the head with palms facing outward

Answer

The Time signal requires raising both hands above the head with palms facing outward while calling 'Time!' to clearly stop play.

Question 5

What is the standard mechanic when calling a ball (not a strike) at the plate?

Accepted Answer

A verbal 'Ball!' call only — no accompanying hand signal is required

Answer

For balls, the plate umpire makes only a verbal call of 'Ball' — no hand signal is required or standard, as the pitch count is tracked by scorers.

Umpire Certification Practice Test

Umpire Certification Practice Test

Umpire Certification Umpire Communication and Signals