UMPIRING CHOICES
There are many things that are going to
happen to you as an umpire that you have no
control over.
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On the other hand, there are many things
which you can control.
Be aware of this very important fact and
consciously control the things you can
control.
Many umpires complicate their jobs
and fail to maximize their potential.
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Why does this happen?
They make poor choices!
Umpiring is a lot more than calling balls
and strikes and safes and outs.
The following are typical examples of
umpire behavior. Is it positive or negative?
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Arrive to the park 5 minutes before game time?
Ignores one manager and is friendly with the other?
Wears a clean, neatly pressed uniform and polished
shoes?
Fails to bring ALL of his equipment to the park?
Listens intently to the manager’s argument?
Negatively criticizes his rookie partner between innings
with coaches and or fans?
Refuses to check with his partner when he give the wrong
count and is challenged by a coach?
More umpire behavior!
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Takes bases to storage area after final
game of the day?
Asks the manager for his help in
controlling his rowdy players?
Gives the out signal in a very casual,
lazy manner on a very close play?
Discusses close plays, coverage's, rules
etc. with partner after the game?
What is expected of ALL
Umpires?
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Have ALL your gear.
Clean you pants, shirts, shoes, and hats regularly.
Be on time arrive at the park no later than 20 minutes
prior to game time; let someone know if you have a
problem. Never no show.
Take you field 10 minutes prior to the first scheduled
game of the day.
Fill out game cards and turn them in after each game.
(THIS IS HOW YOU WILL BE PAID, NO CARD, NO PAY)
Take bases to storage area after last game of the day.
Study your rule books!!
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We will cover a lot of
baseball, but we will not
cover every possible
situation that may arise.
Continually study all
rule books.
Ask questions, there
are no stupid questions
except the one’s not
asked.