Men,
ALL UMPIRES should position themselves in the "slot" (between batter and catcher). It's the same for USSSA, GSL, and USA (proper mechanics). As for the catcher complaining, commenting or needing his space, my response would be simple, Do You Want Me To See All of The Plate or Just The Portion You Allow Me To (due to your overwhelming need to be closer to the plate). The "ONLY" time I will concede more space to the catcher, is during USA games due to stealing. When a runner is on any base (USA), I'm constantly communicating with the catcher to make sure he has a clear throwing lane in the event the runner steals. Both umpire and catcher should communicate this during initial warm up pitches at the beginning of each half of the first inning. Bottom line on positioning of the umpire, the umpire is there to call balls and strikes, give him his DAMN SPACE!!! HELP HIM HELP YOU IN CALLING YOUR PITCH LOCATION..Your pitcher will love you for this!!!