mlb 2nd base ump

[cj]

Many moons ago when we had NL umpires and AL umpires, one difference in umpire techniques was the position of the second base umpire with a runner on base. In the NL he positioned himself inside the diamond while his AL colleagues were behind the bag. As the leagues near consolidating the staffs, the NL position became the standard. In watching today's Met game, I noticed the second base umpire positioned himself outside the diamond. I wonder if mlb has made that change or the ump is doing it on his own?

[FredFan7]

I've noticed that too this year. I wonder if the outside position gives the umpire a better chance to see the swim move that is popular on base steals.

Also, the batters hit the ball so hard that it gives umpires another 30 feet to react and dive out of the way.