Umpiring 101

5:35:41 AM EDT
Feeling Chillin'
Hearing He's Gone

Hey everyone! I hope you are all enjoying your spring training work. The start of the HS and Pro seasons are just around the corner now, and it is a good time to review the duties of the Crew Chief. Whether you are in HS, College, or Pro Baseball, you may be assigned the job of being the CC. This could be for a 2,3, or 4 man crew, but you need to have the basic skills to handle this responsibility. Here are some of the qualities that a Crew Chief needs to possess.

Communicate with Crew and Game Mgt

When you receive your assignment, your first task is to touch base with your partners and the team contact. Make contact with your crew 48 hours before your game. Let them know the time, site, and specifics of your assignment. Have them respond to you and confirm they are scheduled, and what position they are working. You can also determine what uniform style you will wear, and what time you will meet. Always require your crew to either call or email you back to prevent any problems that could arise with scheduling. Next , contact the team coach, or AD. Let them know your contact information,(Cell # and email). Confirm with them the game time, site, and game info. An example would be, " I have on my schedule 1 nine inning game starting at 3 pm." This will prevent any problems that could arise from weather or a change that wasn't given to the assignor. If you haven't heard from a crew member 24 hours before game time, and you have called and emailed them, contact your assignor. Do not risk having a no show. Take the time to follow up on this.

Pre-Game Discussion

Some groups have a manuel that they want followed for this forum. Others leave it up to the CC. A crew of 3 umpires requires a more indepth review regarding mechanics, catch/no catch responsibilities, crew communications, rotations, outfield coverage and appeals. Do not assume that everyone nows where they are supposed to be or what they are responsible for. Invite questions and input from the crew. Poor communication is the main reason for breakdowns in coverage during games.

Plate Meeting

The Plate umpire runs the show here. Take your position at the plate meeting and let him do his job. However if there is a point of contention or some confusion over ground rules, this is where the CC comes in and settles the situation.

Game Duties

You are the leader and the one who sets the example, who keeps control of the game and of the participants and who has the final say in any situation that may arise. Remember, don't look for trouble or be unapproachable. You need to exhibit your leadership skills. Shut down problems before they explode by using your people skills . Remember, your in charge, be in charge.

Post Game

You are responsible for the game report and any paperwork that is required. This is an important task as this lets your E-board know how the game went, puts the payroll in, and gets anything that should be passed up in the information system. An example of this would be any warnings issued, ejections,(which require a report of there own), and any unusual circumstances. You should also review with your crew any instances that happened in the game that were not properly executed, along with ones that were handled well. Remember, you are not there to embarass a colleague, but to help them understand how to better handle a situation the next time. Use good judgement in this area.

Finally, I was recently promoted to Crew Chief in the Northern League for the 2008 season. Besides the jobs I mentioned, my duties include travel arrangements, weather situations, evaluation of crew members, and communication with team and league officials. I am excited and looking forward to this new challege this year.

I am anxious to hear any feedback or comments you might have. Please let me know your thoughts!

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3:29:53 AM EST
Feeling Happy
Hearing Help On The Way

The Baseball season here in Florida is under way now with a full slate of college games and MLB Spring Training games cranking up. I have an abundant college schedule thru FCU and I work at the S/T camps of the Houston Astro's and the Atlanta Braves frequently during March.

 This week I was fortunate to be assigned my first 2 MLB Spring Training games. I have worked many S/T games on the AA and AAA level, some with ML players appearing. But on tuesday I was the plate umpire for an inter squad game with the Houston Astros. It was quite an experience working at this level. The speed and talent of the players was very impressive. The biggest differences between the Northern League in which I work and ML players is the control and command the pitchers have of their pitches, and the bat speed and overall speed of the game.

 Wednesday I worked the plate at Disney's WWOS, the home of the Atlanta Braves. The Braves took on the U of Georgia Bulldogs. Again, being in the middle of the action was very intense even for a game like this. I will post a more in depth report soon.

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8:29:27 PM EST
Feeling Chillin'
Hearing Me and My Uncle

Some observations to review early in the season.

Plate Meeting

When you hold your plate meeting, the Head coach's from both teams should represent their teams. Exceptions would be if it is a game other than the first of a series, or unforeseen circumstances. This can become an issue because, as we all know, because we only talk to the head coach. If the HC refuses to attend, make sure your Crew is all on the same page as to who you will have communication with. This will prevent an ambush on you. Be firm, yet fair on this.

Keep the Players in the Dugout

 

Players will be full of energy at the start of a new season, and seem to like to roam around out of the confinement of the dugout. We enforce this  because it is a safety issue. I recommend this be included in your plate meeting with the coach's.It has also been a Point of Emphasis  in the recent past, that we have been instructed to enforce. Make sure that the coach's and the players understand what you have told them. Don't ignore or not enforce this situation. You will lose the respect of baseball people by giving them a directive, then not enforcing it. Your in charge, be in charge.

 

Flow of the Game

Keeping the game moving is a Game Management skill that the Top Umpires possess. It keeps everybody focused on the game and in a rhythm. Here are 3 tips to achieve this:

1) Count the pitches in between innings. You know the drill here

2)Have an adequate supply of baseballs in your ball bags When I get down to 3 in my bag, I request 3 more. Do not wait for players to retrieve foul balls. Hold the home team responsible for meeting the demand.

3) Call strikes.You need to establish your zone early. We have been instructed  to use the whole strike zone. Specifically calling higher strikes. I know it can be difficult for some to do this, but it is not optional. We can all do this and maintain consistency. I have never heard comments from coaches for calling strikes and encouraging the players to swing the bat. About 3 years ago while having a postgame meeting in the Ft. Myers Ale House, it was brought to my attention that while most umpires will expand the outside corner, most declare the inside corner off limits. Time to change your thinking! If the pitcher can hit that spot, and the catcher can receive it properly, why are these pitches not being called strikes? Use the whole plate.

Game Reporting

All groups now either use the Arbiter or Assignbyweb. It is part of our job to submit a game report within the time period requested. It is also how most of us get paid. get used to this. It is not going away.

Comments and Ideas

Please let me know any of your ideas or questions. I am interested in all of them

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2:16:26 AM EST
Feeling Anxious
Hearing Mama Tried

Well here we go. We made it through a long difficult winter, and now,... Well ,those of us in Florida are enjoying the great weather. It is the time of year that we prepare for the new season. It is essential that you have your insurance  up to date, You will be asked to show your proof of Insurance most likely at your first meeting. Don't be embarrassed by not having it. Many organizations ask you to pay a dues fee or assignment fee up front. Be prepared for this. Your schedule may not be issued until this is payed. We all know the drill with hats ,shirts and equipment. Don't be caught short.

 I think that we all look forward to returning to the field. We wouldn't be in the game if we didn't love it.NCAA, NFHS, NAIA. They all have rules changes and points of emphasis.Make an effort to read them, and discuss them with a colleague. The difference between the top Umpires, and the ones who are serviceable, is in how they prepare and put in the time so they do the  job right. I am fortunate to live in Orlando and to be out on the field the last week of January for College Baseball. Remember, Your in Charge, Be in Charge. 

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4:20:22 AM EST
Feeling Sad
Hearing It's All Over Now

With the release today of Senator Mitchells report on performance enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball, the longtime fans of MLB were given a dose of reality about the world we live in today. If there was any doubt before today that baseball was any different than the rest of the business world, those hopes were blown out of the water. While I was not surprised by the leaders of the industry's comments today, I am still totally disgusted by the " Corporate America " approach that was taken by all the parties involved. Lets look at each group:

The MLB Players Union

Listening to Donald Fehr today, I was reminded that, yes his job is to represent the players, advise them and protect  their rights. But by refusing to cooperate in this attempt to repair a situation that was no secret, and look out for his members health, instead of the truth coming out and the start of a real dialog to move forward, we were treated to the same rhetoric as usual. Stonewalling, trying to turn the blame game on MLB Mgt. Disgraceful.

 

Commissioner Selig

Now he's going to impose discipline on these players, whether it violates the CBA with the players. I think this is the only Management group in the country that  loses almost every labor dispute. But more importantly, finds a way to enrage the paying fans, look like complete buffoons, and end up making the MLBPU look good. He wasn't too worried about this issue as long as record TV ratings and contracts poured in. Or attendance skyrocketed the last decade. Now all of a sudden it's important. Typical Corporate America CEO. Look the other way as long as the money rolls in. But when held responsible for these results, make the players the villains, and plead ignorance .Appalling.

 

The Players

 

To continue to lie to the American public, categorically deny any use or involvement with PED's, groups them in with every other politician, scoundrel and exposed liar that has stood in front of a camera and professed their innocence. You lost something you can't get back by signing autographs, or going to Children's Hospitals. You lost the respect of the public. You have now been labeled as frauds, cheaters and blatant liars. Way to go boy's. Sickening.

Finally, by using the testimony of people who were nailed for their actions and offered deals to reveal names, you might as well put it next to The Star and The National Enquirer. The names of any player who was accused by the clubbies or trainers should have never been included unless there was evidence other than their word. Wait and see how many players  are wrongly accussed. They will always be looked at as cheaters.

This is truly a 3 ring circus with more than enough blame to go around.

Can't wait for Spring Training

 

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8:59:21 AM EST
Feeling Chillin'
Hearing Casey Jones

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8:48:09 AM EST
Feeling Anxious
Hearing I Need a Miracle www.Northernleague.com

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1:14:06 AM EST
Feeling Chillin'
Hearing Me and my Uncle

This is the time of year when we are preparing to attend Umpire Camps, or mandatory clinics. You can take this opportunity to not only learn and improve your on field skills, but also meet new people and network with others in our field. Just as in any business, you will meet others that you can discuss situations with, or use as a sounding board that might offer a different view than what you are used to. This is a valuable tool when you are trying to make the jump into College ball, as you will be challenged by new requirements or different expectations than you have been used too. Most of us have benefited from the guidance and knowledge we have gained from Veteran Officials that we can talk with and ask for their take on a issue or situation. You will also be instructed and evaluated by top officials and conference assignors and coordinators. Your work and attention to details will leave lasting impressions.

Here are some ideas to help you prepare:

1) Be prompt, prepared, and on time for all sessions.

2) Be attentive and interact during sessions. Don't be afraid to offer ideas or answer questions.

3) Hustle and Appearance. First impressions are lasting.

4) During social outings, use good judgement and manners. You do not want to be remembered for improper or embarrassing behavior.

By following these tips, you should enjoy your learning experience.

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12:13:04 AM EST
Hearing Not Fade Away

When trying out for a new group, it is important to be prepared and ready to take on a new challenge.Do not assume that you can impress evaulators with your skills that are common in lower level baseball.Here are some important things to remember when applying to a group:

1) Read there requirements for membership. If you do not meet there standards, ask yourself why.

2)Be prepared both for on the field situations, and rules interpretations. Not knowing basic rules are an easy way to fail. Take the time and do the work neccessary.

3)Ask yourself what kind of official do you want to be. Are you satisfied working in the HS/ Over 30 area? Or are you one who wants to rise to the challenge and work at the next level? Only you can answer that question.

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11:56:47 PM EST
Hearing Feel like a Stranger

Sorry it took so long to get back, but now is the time for all umpires to review their insurance, States requirements for testing, field clinics, or online rules tests that need to be completed for certification. Do not wait to be told what you need to be cleared for on the field duty. We all know how authority can confuse things.Go to your Organizations website and review the information you need to review. Next, we will discuss where you are going in the 2008 season

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