What is the 'Correct Rotation' signal?

• A. In two-, three- or four-man mechanics, the umpires indicate to their partner(s) where they are rotating to a specific base for coverage of an anticipated play. The umpire(s) points with both hands in the direction of the base that they are moving toward.
• B. In a 3 or 4-man mechanic, the umpires indicate to their partner(s) where they are rotating to a specific base for coverage of an anticipated play by shouting what base they are running toward.
• C. The rotating umpire(s) points in the direction of the base that they are moving toward similar to the fair ball signal.
• D. In three-man or four-man mechanic, the umpires indicate to their partner(s) where they are rotating to a specific base for coverage of an anticipated play. The umpire(s) points with both hands in the direction of the base that they are moving toward.

Answer: (D)

When it’s important to signal where coverage will shift for an anticipated play, a clear visual cue from the rotating umpire is used in three- or four-man crews. The correct rotation signal is for the umpire who is moving to point with both hands toward the base they’re moving to, making a strong, easy-to-see direction cue for teammates.

This method fits three- or four-man mechanics because rotation happens as plays develop, and a two-man crew doesn’t use this rotation signal. Verbal shouting isn’t the standard signal, and a single-handed or non-both-hands gesture isn’t how the rotation is communicated. The double-handed pointing specifically communicates the exact base being covered and aligns with the established visual signals used by the crew.