I’m honored to have the opportunity to interview Hunter Wendelstedt for our first interview in this new feature.

Warren: This will be your tenth year in Major League Baseball. Looking back what are some of your favorite experiences?

Hunter: Every time I walk onto the field, I still get excited. I enjoy being a part of a game that I love and being able to have such a close seat. It is a wonderful time. Some of my most memorable experiences have been my times in the playoffs, both the Division Series and League Championship Series. I also enjoyed being offered the opportunity to umpire the Opening Series for 2008 in Japan and the MLB China Series. It is a terrific opportunity when we are offered these types of special events. Of course, my favorite experience of all time would have to be the incredible opportunity to work with my father in a Major League game. It is the only time in history that a father and son have worked a Major League game together, and it stands out in my mind as the most memorable moment of my career.

Warren: You mentioned that last March you had the distinction of going to China for the first ever MLB games played in China in the stadium which was later used for the Olympics. Tell us how did you earn the opportunity to get those games? And tell us a little about your experience in China.

Hunter: Japan and China were wonderful experiences. Major League Baseball determines the umpires that are selected to be put on that main stage. It was an honor to be selected to work there. The entire event was great. All of the people there were very inviting. During our off days, we were able to visit tourist spots like the Imperial Palace and the Great Wall of China.

Warren: Did you get to meet and work with and/or instruct the umpires from the China Baseball Association?

Hunter: We met both umpires in China and Japan. We worked with several Asian umpires during exhibition games. It was a terrific experience, and they all did a great job. Our umpire school has a working relationship with these umpires already, so I knew several people that we worked with. There was no instructional period, though our school will be hosting a clinic in Tokyo at the end of the year.

Warren: Many amateur umpires are equipment junkies. What is your preferred equipment?

Hunter: Well, Wilson is our official supplier but there are a lot of very good equipment companies and dealers out there. The important thing is that each umpire finds what they think is best. No umpire’s body is the same as the other and one chest protector might fit more comfortably on one than it would the other. The same thing goes with masks, shin guards, etc.

Warren: Being the son of the legendary Harry Wendelstedt I think would have two possible outcomes: 1, some doors being opened for you; 2, the bar being set higher, as people’s expectations are set higher actually making it harder for you. Which do you feel is more accurate?

Hunter: Both. Absolutely, it is a certainty that more people may have looked at me during my career but with those looks came more scrutiny. I had to prove myself just that much more and throughout my Minor League career I was always compared to my dad. It is hard to be compared to a future Hall of Fame umpire but I have never looked at it that way personally. I just have always gone out and worked hard and be myself. I let my work do my talking for me.

Warren: Other than your father, what umpires influenced you the most?

Hunter: There are so many. I have grown up with umpires like Randy Marsh, Bruce Froemming, Lee Weyer, Dutch Rennert, Paul Runge. The list goes on and on. I was fortunate to be able to work with Marsh and Froemming in the past, and their guidance on the field has been tremendous.

Warren: You have a pretty unique perspective of amateur umpires through the Harry Wendelstedt Umpires School. What are a few of the more common mistakes or bad habits you see people come in to the school with that an umpire could correct easily at home?

Hunter: The habits they come in with aren’t necessarily “bad”, they’re just not what we teach. We teach the way we do for a couple of reasons. The first is that we are able to grade everyone on the same standard. If we had everyone doing their own thing, it would become very, very subjective. The second reason is that we believe that this is the best way to teach umpires. Basically, our teaching system and methods have remained consistent for more than 50 years. This has obviously worked, because our success rate is much higher than all other programs in history, combined.

Warren: What would be your number one tip for working the plate?

Hunter: There are a few things. No matter what the stance an umpire works, it is important to have proper head height, get positioned well in the slot, track the pitch all the way into the glove, and the timing that is used in calling pitches should all remain the same. Those are all equally as important.

Warren: What would be your number one tip for working the bases?

Hunter: I would say timing. If you slow everything down, you will be able to replay the action in your head and then make the correct call. Too many umpires call plays as soon as they happen, sometimes even before they happen. The whole play has to end and then you should be able to say what the decision is in your head, before you make the call.

Warren: As both a Major League umpire and an instructor, what makes an umpire stand out from the crowd and be promoted quicker.

Hunter: Handling situations. The difference between a good AAA umpire and a Major League umpire is the ability to handle the situations that arise on the field. Most umpires at that level can call balls and strikes, safes and outs, fairs and fouls. It is the ability to diffuse a situation, attempt to keep people in the game, but eject when necessary.

Warren: All umpires have a best story which they love to tell about their umpiring experience, what is yours?

Hunter: I love to tell the story of my dad and myself working together in St. Louis for the first time in history. That is an experience that I am so proud of, and love to tell.

Warren: Do announcers who perpetuate rules myths bother you?

Hunter: They don’t bother me because we all expect it. There is always going to be the guy that sees an umpire signal Spectator Interference, but then gets very upset that the umpire awarded three bases because he is certain that the umpire gave the Ground Rule Double sign. What I appreciate the most is when an announcer, even if they have to say something on air, checks with us later about a ruling. If they misspoke, then go on air again and correct it, I have no problem. It is the announcers that just spout off rulings that they know nothing about, and make no effort to get it right.

Warren: What is your favorite park to work, including MiLB?

Hunter: I love going to San Diego and San Francisco. Both of those cities are great. But there is nothing like going to the historic ballparks like Fenway or Wrigley.

Warren: When you’re not working can you still sit down and enjoy watching a game, or are you paying more attention to the umpires and what they’re doing?

Hunter: I still love watching baseball. It is a great game but your loyalties change a little bit after you become an umpire. I still like to see great plays on the field but I am always looking to see the positioning of the umpires, their timing, the rotations, etc.

Warren: Do big league managers still believe many of the rules myths that we, as amateurs, have to hear all of the time?

Hunter: Some do. For the most part though, managers are very well versed on the rules. Actually, they tend to know the most obscure rules out there because they studied it the night before while they were on the plane, or something, but they have no idea that they may elect to take the results of the play if the penalty for catcher’s interference is enforced. They miss opportunities like this. Also, though batting out of order doesn’t happen that often in the Big Leagues, when it does, it is usually brought to our attention too early. When we tell them that they won’t be getting an out, but instead, will just bring up the proper batter to assume the count, they say, “No, no, no. I’ll just wait until he finishes his at-bat.” But, of course, we can’t. Once they bring it to our attention, we have to correct the mistake.

Warren: In this example with catchers interference; at the Major League level do you offer the option to managers or not? Would the answer change at the amateur level?

Hunter: I don’t think that my answer changes from one to the other. This gets into “coaching” the teams. Even though they probably don’t the players and coaches are required to know the rules, too. We are not supposed to tell them what they can do, only allow them to make the decision on their own. However, that doesn’t mean that a reasonable question can’t be given a reasonable answer. And remember, some of their questions won’t have that question mark at the end of it. It may just be a statement like, “Hunter, there’s got to be a way I can get that run.”

My reply would be, “Why yes there is,” and then wait. If he asks how that is, I tell him. If not, too bad.

Warren: Tell us some of the differences between the Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School and the other major school?

Hunter: There are several differences that I think are substantial. Our staff is comprised of both umpires from every level of the Minor Leagues and the Major Leagues. I am proud to announce that all of our AAA umpires were sent to the Arizona Fall League and all seven have also received full schedules for this year’s Major League Spring Training. Though we have many Major League umpires on staff, our Minor League staff is the cream of the crop. These are going to be the guys that get the next Big League jobs. I credit this to my dad’s ability to recognize umpiring talent. He still makes the decisions as who to newly hire on our staff each year.

Consistently, these umpires have gone on to become Major League umpires. Currently, we have 12 full time Major League umpires on staff. Though it is important to have a competent Minor League staff to keep our school abreast of the new things coming out of there, there is nothing that can replace the experience of our Major League instructors. These aren’t guys that don’t deal with only four-man mechanics. Remember, they teach the Two-Man System every year. They know what they’re doing and the system that they teach is one that was designed by my dad. No other program in history can boast the extensive staff that we have. Our nearest competitor’s staff is mainly composed of first and second year umpires, who, though may be good umpires, do not have the experience to make them as good of instructors.

Another difference is our teaching methods. Though we have controlled situations (with an instructor holding the bat), daily drills, continual cage work, and camp games, we are the only school that uses live games played by college and high school teams in its curriculum. This is important, not only because it offers the students live game experience but because it is also the only thing that is used at the PBUC placement camp to determine starting leagues and levels of entry umpires. Our students are better prepared for this evaluation than a school that only offers simulated situations. Finally, the results speak for them self. Our school has produced more professional umpires and more Major League umpires, than all other programs in history combined. Since the inception of our newest competitor’s first umpire to reach the Major Leagues, our numbers more than double that of theirs. With well over one hundred Major League umpires produced, our nearest competitor doesn’t even come close with their less than a handful.

Though statistics can often be skewed, these are hard to move. In fact, they claim that their senior instructor has trained or supervised a large number of the current Major League staff. What they fail to say is that the vast majority of the MLB umpires trained by him were while he was an apprentice instructor with our school.

Warren: What should an umpire considering attending the school know before heading down there?

Hunter: Just work hard. No matter what you’ve learned in the past, we promise it won’t be the same as what you will learn here. Also, knowing the rules is important, but it is more important to be able to apply them on the field. Don’t study the rulebook looking for knotty problems; instead, learn the basic concepts that we teach you and you will be able to solve any rhubarb that comes your way. Just taking it step-by-step.

Warren: Your website mentions “The Wendelstedt Rules and Mechanics Manual.” Tell us about that and when that will be available.

Hunter: We’ve already published it. However, the updated version will be coming out by the middle of February. This is necessary as professional baseball makes changes to either the rules or its interpretations. They recently made some changes that we must adjust to. It will be available with the rest of our new product line, at our newly designed website. The new site and product line will be available following the completion of this year’s course.

Warren: Your website also talks about “The Wendelstedt Umpire School 2009 Clinic Circuit.” What can someone expect from the circuit? Will it be staffed by your regular 5 week staff? Which locations will the circuit be hitting? Will you be changing the locations next year?

Hunter: Our new schedule will be posted with our new website as well. Each clinic will include members of our regular staff, as well as local clinicians and other professional umpires. This upcoming year, we will be traveling to West Virginia, Missouri, California, Vancouver, Hawaii, Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, and Japan. If local umpires, groups, or associations are interested in having a clinic hosted in their area, they are free to contact the school at admin@umpireschool.com. Also with our new website, we will offer potential students a wonderful opportunity for a non-profit organization called The Umpire Education Tuition Assistance Program. This independent organization will offer students need-based grants between $250.00 and $2800.00.

Warren: Hunter thank you very much for your time. Have a great season and we’ll be looking for #21 out there.

I’m glad to have the opportunity to ask Jim Kirk, owner of Ump-Attire, a few questions. I think you’ll enjoy some of his insight as a supplier.

Warren: How did you originally get into the business of being a supplier of officials’ products?

Jim: I wish I had some grand story, but it is one of those one-thing-leads-to-another stories.

I was working on an MBA and feeling entrepreneurial when I decided to get into doing E-Commerce development for small businesses. I read a story in 2001 about a company called Ump-Attire, basically down the road from me that I had never heard of, who was manufacturing some products for umpires and had stated in the article they wanted to get more involved in Internet sales.

Are you kidding? I mean could this have been more up my alley or what, especially with my background in baseball and as a former umpire? Well after a few phone conversations and meetings, we started working together. I saw a lot of potential with the company, and especially in this niche officials’ supplier market.

The company started to grow as did my involvement to the point that the owner, Beulah Hester, had a vision to sell the retail portion of the business to me while she would focus on her strength as a designer and manufacturer of products.

So, I bought Ump-Attire.com in March of 2006, moved it to Louisville and soon began focusing on it full-time. We continue to have a close relationship with Ms. Hester where she not only provides us with our specialty items such as our Ultimate Ball Bags and Ultimate Shirts, she has been a great adviser and friend as well.

Warren: I read somewhere that baseball umpires are the most difficult of officials to supply. Do you think this holds true?

Jim: No, I don’t agree with that. Most of our umpire customers are very easy to deal with. The only truth to that could be based on the fact that umpires have so many more items they need versus what is needed for let’s say basketball officials. I will add that I am impressed with the level of knowledge umpires have when it comes to gear and apparel. I believe sites like yours at Umpire-Empire have been a big part of that. And the more educated our customers are and the more they know what they want, the easier it makes life for us.

Warren: What are some of the biggest changes you have seen in terms of umpire equipment over the years?

Jim: Well, over the last 10 years, there is the borrowing from football their shoulder pads in the development of hard shell chest protectors and the borrowing from hockey their goalie helmets for umpire helmets.

Then, more recently, there has been the move to lighter weight frames for masks. The titanium ups the bar here because if you have one of these you realize how much better visibility you get through its thinner bars and less contrast lighter color in its raw form.

Plus, there are now more household brands making umpire shoes than ever before when you have New Balance and Reebok.

The largest change, though, in my opinion, is the move toward performance synthetics. But it’s not just under apparel or compression wear anymore, it’s also shirts – an area where we have provided some leadership, pants, socks or even mask padding that have made life more comfortable and functional for umpires.

Depending on these synthetics and how they are treated, you can obtain benefits such as moisture management, quick drying, wrinkle resistance, odor blocking anti-microbial agents, no picking or pilling and more.

Warren: What changes do you see coming in the future?

Jim: I think in the near future, you’ll mostly see the industry improving on recent changes.

For instance, companies will tweak their shoes. Reebok is already planning on toning down the white logo on theirs and there seems to be a small trend in incorporating a patent look on shoes without making it a completely harder-to-maintain patent.

There will also be more hard shell chest protector options in the future once the Joe West patent expires in a few years where it vaguely appears now that virtually everything hard shell is a potential infringement. More options will provide some lower cost alternatives, especially for beginning umpires and perhaps some improvements.

Performance fabrics will move beyond just ones that wick moisture. We’ve already raised the bar here with our new Ultimate Umpire Shirts that have additional features and have some other products in the works that will do so as well.

Warren: You spent some time as an umpire, tell us about your umpiring experience.

Jim: I got married right out of college, and I was looking for a way to earn extra income in addition to my full-time job. Having played baseball in college, umpiring high school baseball seemed like a logical choice. For a reference point, this would have been 1993-94 and that would have put me at 23-24 years of age. I umpired in the southeastern part of Kentucky.

By year two, I felt I was a decent umpire as far as my demeanor with coaches, strike zone and calls on the bases – I really worked on playing that close play over in my mind before making a call.

But, I honestly struggled with gaining a sense of satisfaction in being an umpire. I remember being given an important district rivalry game near the end of the year with the top two teams and teams with very good, but vocal coaches. I knew I was taking the plate and spent some time preparing myself mentally for the game. I remember having as many butterflies before the game then as I had before any game as a player.

The game was very tight and came down to a close play at home. As far as I was concerned, I called a very solid game and managed the game and coaches in a highly professional manner. I would say it was my best game! But the fans were all over me for most of the game on both sides and the losing coach let me have it over the final call. I just remember thinking, “I just called my best game, and still no one is satisfied with me”.

So although I was doing well, umpiring just didn’t fit my personality, which was to make everyone happy. I’d probably do better now that I’m older and wiser.

So I quit to focus on a graduate degree. But I can tell you, I never yelled at a referee or umpire again after that experience.

Warren: If it’s umpiring or any other aspect of life, you need to have a passion for what you’re doing. You’ve obviously found your passion with Ump-Attire.

Warren: When you umpired what equipment did you use?

Jim: Well, I know I skimped when I umpired. I did and bought things I wouldn’t advise a beginning umpire to do now that I know what I’m doing. I didn’t wear plate shoes, but fortunately was never hit on the foot. I had one of those ball bags where the brush goes on the outside and an Elbeco shirt I bought from Honig’s. I hated that shirt. It was always coming untucked. Boy, could I have used a flex or ultimate belt.

I also had a “The Ump” thin soft foam chest protector with no hard plastic inserts or anything hard. I really liked it a lot until I took a very hard shot once that shook me up, left me with a long-lasting bruise and with a realization I should have gotten something more involved.

Warren: What equipment would you use today?

Jim: I would definitely be upgrading my chest protector that’s for sure. Depending on the game or weather, I‘d go with either the Wilson Platinum or Diamond iX3. The platinum fits me better around the neck than the Gold, and I think the iX3 would be sufficient protection or me at the high school level or lower.

For head protection, I’d err on the side of safety with a Shock FX Umpire Helmet…. Great vision, not-too-heavy.

Shin guards… Wilson Charcoal – I think they provide the best combination of comfort and protection without being too bulky.

Shoes… New Balance for both plate and base… the new MF995 lows on the bases.

On shirts, the Majestic polo blue with black collar. I love the look at that shirt. But I’d have to say our new Ultimate Umpire Shirts in navy and powder blue for now and other colors when they become available later. Was that enough of a plug?

Pants… Smitty. The ones from this year are a big improvement.

Ball bag… I think you know that answer there.

Warren: Does your experience as an umpire come into play as you decide what to carry?

Jim: Well, I’m glad I have that background, but I would say not so much except for knowing what it’s like to be a starting umpire with limited funds and that I won’t be carrying the Elbeco shirts anytime soon. I’m much more influenced by listening to umpires who have much more experience than I have than anything else.

Warren: As new products and new equipment companies enter and leave the market how do you decide which line of products for Ump-Attire to carry and how hard is it deciding?

Jim: That’s a tough question to answer because we don’t have any set formula. Early on, it was much easier to decide because we had a lot of gaps in our selection. For instance, when we started we basically had no shoes. How could we be a serious contender in this market without shoes? That was a no-brainer, and now we have a pretty strong selection of something like 18 options in all sports.

When things aren’t so obvious, there are really a lot of things you could start carrying from your suppliers, other suppliers or that you could do yourself. So you have to weigh all those, listen to your customers and just determine what combination of new things just feels right without going completely overboard.

It’s a little easier to decide on new products already carried by one of our suppliers. Is it a quality item? Would we use it if we were umpiring at the level it’s intended for? Is the price to us reasonable? Can we sell at a price where customers would find it as a good value? Does it fit well into our product selection where it’s not too similar to something else?

When you have an opportunity to buy products from new suppliers or some already out there, you ask some of the same questions. But it’s important to get a good sense that a supplier is going to be easy to work with. If your early interaction with a sales rep or the company in getting more information or in getting set up isn’t going well, and that happens more than you’d think, then it’s highly likely it’s not going to be worth the headache.

Warren: We’ve all seen things like the radar gun type indicator, the belt hook to carry your mask on, and other such items. What are some of the more “interesting” things which have been brought to your attention or someone has tried to get you include in your product line?

Jim: It seems like a year ago, we were being approached by some company or person every other month with something.

One interesting item someone approached me with two years ago was a retractable umpire brush. Well, the umpire brush itself wasn’t retractable, but it had a retractable extension that would allow one to brush off the plate without bending over. Just picture an umbrella but instead of the top of an umbrella it was an umpire brush at the end of a metal rod. That product was actually not made yet. It was sent to me as a drawing. The person who had the idea got the idea because his father was an umpire who had trouble bending over due to a medical condition. Obviously, we passed on the idea.

Sometimes the best things are the simplest things.

Warren: What do you think sets Ump-Attire apart from the other suppliers of officials needs?

Jim: With out a doubt, openness. Whether it’s sharing product information, good or bad, on the website or directly with customers, we try to be very open and honest. Just read any of our umpire gear buying guides or my Officially-Unofficial blog. You’ll notice things we might say about products or about us that others might not readily want to share about their products or themselves.

Most umpires are really down-to-earth. I believe they’d rather buy from a company they feel they know a little bit and trust will be even-handed with them rather than one who just slaps a bunch of products and prices on a website somewhere. Anyone can do that.

Warren: How much in advance do you know about new products coming down the pipeline?

Jim: With outside suppliers, such as Wilson, Diamond and Reebok, it’s typically about 4-6 months. This time frame is usually when we book or place our orders in advance to have available at the beginning of the next season.

We might hear a rumor here or there earlier on some things such as we did with the Reebok plate shoes. Or we might suggest something that might not be available until a year or so later. This was the case on the Diamond silver frame mask.

Warren: Is there any product you are surprised hasn’t/didn’t do better in the market?

Jim: Hmmm. Not really. Most products sell as expected or, when they don’t, they’ll sell better than expected. The only item that really surprised me on the better-than-expected end of the spectrum was the Diamond Ultimate Umpire Equipment Bag. I didn’t think we’d sell many at $140 each, and at the time the most expensive bag we previously had was in the $40-45 range. And I was off, pretty far off actually, as the item has done really well. It truly showed me that umpires are willing to spend money on things that are of high quality and/or address a need.

Warren: What is the biggest hurdle you have had to overcome in the officials supplier market?

Jim: The market itself is pretty much uncomplicated. The customers are a target group that you can easily find and get feedback and ideas from. There is a narrow range of products to select from. And you can always easily find what your competitors are up to.

Our biggest hurdle honestly has been managing our growth. I hope none of our competitors are reading this, but we’ve averaged in the ball park of doubling each of the last 3 years. So making sure we have the right amount of people, inventory, systems and training to keep up with this growth has been quite the challenge. A good problem to have as they say, but a challenge we’re continually overcoming.

Our ability in keeping it together is all a testament to the great crew we have here.

Warren: Ump-Attire seems to be a good community citizen actively involved in various charities including Blue for Kids, UMPS CARE and more. Tell us a little more about your community involvement.

Jim: Thanks for noticing. I am a big believer that businesses should give back.

UMPS CARE, our largest charity, is a no-brainer for us. The MLB umpires and Samuel Dearth, the director, do all the work. We just lend our monetary support to them and do our part in promoting their events with our customers. All of this work is eventually for the benefit of children in hospitals or who are awaiting adoption.

In May, I will participate in a hospital event in Cincinnati with umpires Ted Barrett, Greg Gibson and Andy Fletcher where we’ll visit children and do Build-A-Bear workshops with them. I’m really looking forward to that.

We’ve also been a sponsor for Wrestle for Autism and an educational partner for NASO, both the last 2 years. We even sponsor a local little league team in the Louisville area.

Having said all of that, we can still do better and have some plans in the works for additional community involvement.

But you know being a good community citizen is also good for business. Staff know we are a part of something bigger and not just a company who sells stuff – so that’s good for morale. And I think our customers see it, too, and prefer to buy from us knowing we are giving something back. It’s just a win-win all the way around.

Warren: Jim, thank you for your time and also thanks for being actively involved with the umpiring community not only here but a number of other places as well.

Warren: Bob, start out by telling us a little about your umpiring career and your progression through the ranks.

Bob: I was hired in 1995 and went into the Gulf Coast League. I was fortunate enough to earn a playoff spot in my first year. I’ll never forget the game I had the plate was an incredible game final score 0-1 and we got it done in 1:57.

The next year I went to the Northwest League after extended spring training. I got to work the championship game that year which was another great experience.

After that I went to the Midwest League. I also got to work the championship game that year, but one of the even greater events was getting to call a game near my hometown. My first game there I must have had between 50-100 family members there to see me.

1998 was probably the toughest year of my career. I was promoted to the Florida State League. On top of that I was being evaluated probably once a week. That year everything seemed to happen to me rather than my partner. I had 13 ejections at the All-Star break and 22 for the year, but I still got to the playoffs.

In 1999 I was promoted to the Class AA Eastern League and was the only rookie assigned to the playoffs. I was promoted to crew chief in 2000 and worked the championship series. In 2001 I was promoted to AAA before mid-season, and that ended my string of playoff appearances, but I couldn’t complain with the promotion! I worked in the International League and made the playoffs in 2002, 2003 and 2004. I was also selected to be Crew Chief in the All-Star game in 2004.

Also, a little piece of trivia I was behind the plate for 2 perfect games. In 2000 I was behind the plate when Pete Zamora had one in a 7 inning game and Bronson Arroyo in 2003 which was a 9-inning game. Both were great thrills.

Warren: That’s quite an incredible journey. What were some of your best memories of your career?

Bob: Hands down my best experience was working the All-Star game in Pawtucket. It was just a perfect combination of the game, the festivities surrounding the game, the fans, the complete environment, and my performance. It may have been one of the best games I ever called.

Warren: Tell us a little more about the environment and festivities there.

Bob: One of the greatest things they had was a round table discussion with Dom DiMaggio, Johnny Pesky, and Bobby Doerr. They were sharing their memories and I would still be sitting there listening to them if I could be, they were just amazing.
Also the city of Pawtucket went all out too. Everything was just incredible.

Warren: And how about the game?

Bob: The game was perfect. We went into the 10th inning tied 1-1 and the announcer told the crowd that by rule this as the last inning and the game could end in a tie. The crowd didn’t care too much for that rule. The top of the inning went 1-2-3. The bottom went 1-2 and Andy Phillips digs into the box. As he’s digging in I asked him, “Have you ever hit a walk off home run?” He just grinned. “You’d better do it now.” I said jokingly to him, and what do you know; he did.

Warren: What umpires influenced you the most in your career?

Bob: There are too many to name, but on the list would definitely be Justin Klemm, Matt Hollowell, Mike Fichter, Mark Carlson, Pat McGinnis, and David Riley. I just learned so much from them. Also, I’d have to include guys like Tim Timmons; he’s kept me sane. Rob Drake is another; he has the appearance and presence you have to have as an umpire. I have to mention Greg Chittenden. He is just one of the finest guys around. He’s calm and one of the greatest balls and strikes umpires I’ve ever seen. I’d say I don’t think he’s ever missed a pitch. Then I’d have to say Tim Tschida as well. He’s a super nice guy and I’ve admired his mechanics and even tried to duplicate his strike three call. I could really keep going forever. I’ve been really fortunate to have so many great influences.

Warren: Going back to the beginning, how did you start your umpiring career?

Bob: I started like so many other guys with some 7-8 year olds in a coach pitch game. I then did my first big boy game when I was 16. I was told at the end of the season I wasn’t good enough to work the next level. Which was actually the truth at that time. But at 18 I worked the classic C State Championships.

Warren: Now all umpires have great stories about event’s they have been involved in what’s one of your craziest stories?

Bob: It definitely has to be when I was in the Northwest League and went to Medford for a Timberjacks game. One game I was on the bases and between innings the mascot of the Timberjacks comes out carrying a foam rubber mannequin dressed in a Northwest League Umpire’s uniform and has some words with my partner. The mascot then begins to body slam the dummy repeatedly and just really crossed the line. My partner ejected the mascot.

A few weeks later we went back to Medford, and this mascot was earning a very bad reputation among the umpires for his acts. Well we arrive really early and while at the stadium the see the mascots uniform. So we took the head and hid it.

The game went smoothly and no sight of the mascot. Well then he must have found the head of his costume and between innings sometime around the 6th inning comes out from behind the outfield wall driving an ATV which is dragging his umpire mannequin by a noose. He was promptly ejected again. That ended up being the last game of that mascot’s career as the league took action.

Bob: I also have another story about my worse experience. We were leaving one city and heading to another and as is the policy we call the GM of where we are going to confirm everything for the game. I spoke to the GM and was told the game was the next night at 7:00 which was the standard. We got into town checked into our hotel. Then about 5:15 when we were just heading out to the field we got a call asking where we were. We casually answered we’re on our way to the field now. Well the game was scheduled to actually be a double header and started at 5:00. We rushed out there and got the game started at just before 6:00. Well after the game one of the league officials came to the locker room to read us the riot act. Even after the GM confirmed to him that he told us 7:00. We were handed 2 brown envelopes as the league official left the locker room. We were each fined $100 for being late. That really hurt.

Warren: I want to find out about your equipment. What do you use?

Bob: I use the West Vest Gold chest protector. I’ve had it for probably 10 years. It was actually given to me by Joe West. A group of us umpires were in a restaurant in Florida with Joe and having a great time talking with him and learning. At the end of the night as we were leaving he brought us to his truck and pulled out a number of the vests and started passing them out. I also use the heavy duty West Vest shin guards, I think they are an absolute must. And the West Vest Mask. For plate shoes I use the Gerry Davis patent leather ones.

Warren: What are some of your favorite ball parks?

Bob: I definitely have to rank Pawtucket number one. The fans are crazy Red Sox fanatics and they pack the house nearly every night and are really into their team. I’d also have to say Portland, Maine. The people who run it are the top of the line. I really want to move there. Then there’s also Memphis. It’s just a great city a great location and just two blocks off of Beale Street.

Warren: How about the other side of the coin, what’s your least favorite?

Bob: I’d have to say WPA field in Clinton Iowa. The fans there are just relentless on umpires. They could be winning and they are still malicious.

Warren: Let’s switch gears a little bit and talk about umpire training and OUTS. As an instructor what is the number one piece of advice you can give regarding base and plate work?

Bob: I see too many guys selling the obvious like the can of corn to the center fielder. I also see a lot of timing issues which some effort can be corrected. Then come some of my biggest pet peeves; hustle, appearance and guys who call being the 3rd base umpire the rocking chair.

Hustle is easy, being out of position is not as bad as not hustling out on the field. Appearance, this is easy too, I don’t understand guys who go out on the field looking sloppy. Appearance and hustle are the two things somebody who knows nothing about umpiring can take notice of and still accurately judge an umpire.

Then calling the 3rd base umpire the rocking chair; that tells me right off the bat what their attitude is going to be for the game. If the three man mechanics are done correctly, that is a very active, responsible position.

Warren: What made you stand out from your peers and rise like you did and get all of the post season assignments?

Bob: The great thing about what I feel made me stand out is that anybody can do it. The first thing was the way I handled odd situations. I earned a reputation of being neither a red ass nor a politician. The coaches knew and respected that and so did my evaluators. I also have to go back to what I said before, hustle. I had a home run which was hit up the left field line and was really a trouble ball in terms of fair foul. I made it to the third base when I stopped and made my call. The third base coach commented to me how nice it was to see an umpire get out there and hustle. And maybe most importantly, I enjoyed every minute of it. This just wasn’t a job for me I took it very seriously and still enjoyed it.

Warren: How did you get the idea to start OUTS?

Bob: I’m currently working as a conductor on the BNSF Railway and a guy I was working with who is a baseball encyclopedia about both players and umpires. We were talking about how in most training umpires don’t get the opportunity to call live games being video taped and deal with real live situations. I thought that is a down side. So I got to thinking and then bounced it off of Jeff Biddle, the athletics director of Cocoa Expo, about training umpires in his live games. He liked it and that was the start of it all.

Warren: Is OUTS going to focus on more two man mechanics or three man mechanics?

Bob: I originally thought we’d only have 2 man mechanics, but then there was so much demand for three man what we decided to do is offer a break out session for those who were interested in three man where they could get what they are seeking, while still giving those who don’t have any interest in three man all the same instruction they originally signed up for. I think this will be a great way to give everybody what they want.

Warren: How many students will you have at OUTS?

Bob: We’re capable of having 100 students. Some will be one week students some will be 2 week students. We’re really excited because we have students registering from all across the country. I honestly don’t expect to reach capacity our first year, but I think with our concept of training revolving around live game situations will be very popular. As the word spreads we’ll fill it up. Plus our staff is great and offers a tremendous amount of experience students will be able to learn from.

Warren: Bob, thanks for joining us and giving us some great insight. Also, good luck with the inaugural year of OUTS. Be sure to let us know how it turns out.

______________________________________

Since this interview was completed OUTS has been required to change their name. They are now Oceanside Umpire Training Seminar. Apparently the state of Florida has some regulations on naming an organization “school”

• Arrive on time – Don’t start out behind. It puts you and your partner in a bind.
• Appearance – I can’t say it enough, look the part. A clean, crisp uniform and polished shoes make a world of difference.
• Posture – When on the field have a straight back, chin up, & shoulders back. Give the air of being in control by your mere presence.
• Vocals – If you give a vocal on a play; give a loud, strong, understandable vocal. And use the proper terms, “he’s out!” Not “Got Him” or anything else. And never call a ball, “Fair!”
• Do it with purpose – What ever you do, do it in an immediate, direct way. If you appear lackadaisical the coaches are more apt to see you as a good target if the opportunity arises.
• Hustle – Not only in live ball situations, but dead ball situations as well. Beat the catcher back after breaking up a conference, run back down the line after a rotation play. Coaches will notice, and so will your evaluators.
• Strong Mechanics – Nothing says “I don’t give a crap” like weak mechanics. Even on a routine play give it a strong mechanic. Routine plays are a great time to actually take a moment and think about what you’re doing and develop good habits.
• Cleaning the plate – This is a personal pet peeve of mine. When you clean the plate, stand on the field side of the plate square to the plate and your fourth point of contact towards the pitcher and brush it. Don’t just swipe it with your foot or tell the catcher to dust it with his glove.
• Putting the ball in play – One of the most overlooked aspects of play. After a dead ball situation the ball must be put back into play. If nobody is aboard just point to the pitcher, remember strong mechanics. No vocal is really necessary. With runners aboard, give a strong “Play!” Make sure the pitcher is in contact with the pitcher’s plate before making the ball live. You don’t want to be on the losing end of an argument about the runner didn’t know the ball was live, or you made the ball live before the pitcher had contacted the plate giving him an advantage over the runner.
• Chit-Chatting with your partner – I do not like seeing umpires group together unnecessarily between innings. Usually in the pre-game I’ll tell my partner let’s plan to talk at the end of the 4th unless something comes up. This is a good opportunity to check on each other. But if something gets screwy in the bottom of the 4th, you don’t want to get together. That invites a coach to drop by as well because the natural assumption will be that you’re discussing his play. On the other hand, if there is something you need to discuss at a point other than the pre-defined time do so, but make it quick. Be deliberate and hustle back to position when you’re finished.
• Call the coaches by name – This is a simple act of professionalism and courtesy. It not only strengthens rapport, but helps bring down the tension in uneasy times. Try to make sure the coaches return the favor.
• Smile – While we want to be as professional as possible. There is nothing wrong with smiling, being friendly and letting people see you want to be there. Don’t carry this too far and jabber jaw with every coach, player and spectator.
• Keep the game moving – I love baseball more than most people, but I don’t want to be at a 3 hour 40 minute game. Keep the game moving by not calling time unnecessarily, quickly put balls back in play, and don’t allow too many pitches between innings.

Remember get the small things nailed down, so that when the train wreck comes you will have the fundamentals out of the way and can focus on the situation at hand.

First, many times your coming fresh on to the field have a crisp, clean uniform with freshly polished shoes – you look the part. Easy enough.

Next, take proper positioning. I hate too sound remedial, but I’ve seen it done incorrectly so many times I feel it needs to be said; Plate ump behind the plate, base umpire(s) across from the plate facing him. This is part of your job, so do it properly. Even on the small diamond.

As the coaches arrive exchange introductions, as a tool to help me remember their names I write their names on their line up cards. I make every effort to address each coach by their name. It’s a matter of courtesy and professionalism. I also try to make sure they use my name as well.

I recommend developing a few scripts to when conducting the plate conference. I have two I use. One for Rec ball and one for scholastic.

Here’s an example of my script for a high school game from after the introductions and exchange of the line up cards:

“Coach Smith, Coach Jones, we are playing a 7 inning game with no time limit under federation rules and the 10 run rule will be in effect after 4 ½ or 5.

I then give any quick remarks about the ground rules the field. Such as:

· The light posts being outside the fence
· Face of the dugouts being in/out of play
· Anything else needing to be noted
· Some games and fields there won’t be anything to add

Note: I have edited this since I first posted it. Originally I mentioned getting the home coach to take us through his ground rules. I no longer suggest this. Coaches will take you over every nook and cranny of the field and take too long. My new suggestion is to meet briefly before the game with the home coach get his ground rules then you as an umpire make note of the important ones and share those at the plate meeting.

I continue my script, “Gentlemen, are all of your players properly equipped?” Note: You must get a verbal affirmative response here. Don’t let a non-answer or head nod slip by. I continue (if necessary), “Keep in mind of our sportsmanship obligations, and let’s have a great game.”

The major difference in my script is that for Rec ball I start immediately behind the plate and go clockwise covering every aspect of the field where I think a ball may get out. For big boy games you don’t need to cover any nook and cranny of the field. Doing so would make you look inexperienced, and therefore diminish your credibility with the coach.

Base guys , at the plate conference you have 3 very important duties:

1. Look sharp
2. Introduce yourself
3. Listen to the ground rules

Please note, other than the introduction, none of the above items require any talking on your part. The only conceivable time you may have permission to speak is during the ground rules. Anything said by the base umpire should be asked directly as it relates to a ground rule the coach lays out. This meeting should be quick to the point and still professional.

I see and read about umpires with a number of bad habits at the plate conference such as issuing warnings, putting their own ground rules into effect, bring up history or other such ridiculous things. This is highly unprofessional and just plain wrong.

If you find yourself in a situation where a AD, Tourny Dir., or some other person is asking you to issue a warning before the game I would suggest asking them make such warnings before the plate conference on their own. This sets a bad, confrontational tone and things can only get worse from there because the coach(es) will be immediately put on the defensive and will now see you as a bad guy.

We also do not bring up history at the conference. History is just that, history, in the past. More likely than not you would eject a coach who brings up history negatively to you, so don’t do that for them. I’m not saying forget completely about it. These things are useful reminders we should keep to ourselves and use as appropriate, but never mention verbally.

Another bad habit I see is being too friendly with one of the coaches. I don’t care if the guy is a good friend from 30 years back in high school. Yucking it up and being overly familiar to one of the coaches leads the other one to think, ‘oh, they’re buddies, I’m screwed.’ He will be on the defensive and will be looking for that close call that doesn’t go his way. On the field your relationship is professional no matter who the coaches are.

Don’t underestimate the power of a good plate conference. It’s an easy way to show you are in control and gain credibility with the coaches.

• I’ve had a blast – not that I’m leaving. It’s been awesome discussing rules interps with those that have years of experience at the upper levels of baseball.* ManInBlue
• Thanks Rob for what we’ve had so far. Your site has been first-rate… cookie
• I would like to thank Rob for starting the site and message board. I know it has helped all of us with our umpiring. Coaster Palooza
• A+ on the site. It has connected me with so many people. I appreciate it. mattmullins55
• I learned a lot and gained a ton of confidence while working my HS games thanks to the knowledge I gained from the info shared on the site. It was like attending a daily umpire’s clinic. My life has been enlightened. Thank you! circlesthesun
• As a 15 year old LL umpire i loved this site as I could chat with other umpires and get advise. Thank you Rob for all you’ve done, and taking the time to think about the other umpires. FALLumpire
• Thanks so much, Rob, for running this site. I got an immense amount of knowledge from you and the great bunch of umpires here. BrianC14
• I just wanted to say thanks for the effort you put into this idea. And to all the rest (Professional- LL umpires), thanks for keeping this site civil. It was refreshing to visit daily and share experiences. Dobie
• I have learned alot and feel that i am a better umpire because of this site. THANK YOU!!! for attempting to let umpires of all walks of life see into the world you work in and teaching us to be more professional in our levels of baseball. okump96
• Thank you Rob! This was an excellent umpiring message board and I will definitely miss it. I have a new found respect for you after you started this message board to HELP us amateur umpires get better. There is a dying need for umpiring education everywhere, and this was a great source of information from someone at the highest level of baseball. angus
• THANK YOU. For giving us somewhere to come and speak on a professional level and allow us to get better as umpires across the board. I don’t think there is one person on this site who hasn’t taken at least something away from it, and that credit solely goes to you. Rash3UC

S – Specific – Not I’m going to be a better umpire, but I’m going to improve my timing.
M – Measurable – Not necessarily as in the case of timing to be measurable on a stopwatch in all cases, but being perceived as having better timing on evaluations.
A – Attainable – Having the goal of improving my timing is attainable, having a perfect strike zone every game is not.
R – Realistic – If I were to have the goal of being the home plate umpire for Game 1 of the World Series next month, I may be setting a goal which is not realistic, just maybe.
T – Timely – Put a time frame to it not, I’m going to have improved timing, but I will improve my timing by next year.
Challenging – It’s not much of a goal to hay I’m going to eat a ham and swiss sandwich for lunch because there’s no challenge to it.

Here is a poor goal statement:
I’m going to be a better umpire

Here’s one that fits our model:
I will demonstrate my improved timing in my evaluation scores, before the end of the 2009 evaluation period.

Now there is no ambiguity in your goal and you will be able to know if you reach it or not. Also, you can set multiple goals, just make sure you follow the model. Believe me just having the specific goal defined is a huge help, but it’s only the beginning.

Now let’s work on an execution plan for the goal. This will require some deep realistic introspection. Unfortunately, not everybody is good at this part. Once again referring to my career as a human resource professional I deal with this on a regular basis. I deliver the annual reviews to all of our staff individually. When it comes to discussing some peoples’ weaknesses or “developmental opportunities” as the PC freaks like to say, I am amazed at how some people just cannot see their shortcomings. I spoke to somebody once about their lack of organization (not that I have much room to talk). I was able to specifically document more than one occasion where their lack of organization created a preventable situation. That person vehemently denied that they were not organized and really took offense to being told this. All the while we’re sitting in their office which by any definition was a fire hazard.

Sticking with the timing example think it through, try to see yourself the way others see you and determine why you are perceived as not having good timing. Are you coming up to quickly on your calls, are you having to change your calls, are your mechanics causing you to have bad timing? So diagnose the problem and be honest with yourself.

Now depending on your specific situation and goal begin to execute your strategy for accomplishing your goal. You may decide that if you increase your head height and wait half a second more before making a call you will reach your goal. Go out on the field and try it. Maybe after a few games you realize this isn’t helping as much as you expect, time to make a new strategy. While keeping the same goal you can change your strategy for achieving the goal. Think of it as a trip where your goal is your destination, you may have to take a detour or other alternate route to get there. If you make your strategy too rigid then it has a higher chance of failure. Also remember it may be necessary to take a step back in order to move forward.
As you’re executing your plan look at each game and see how things are progressing. Get others opinions. If you haven’t noticed already umpires are overall a good group of guys who want each other to succeed. Tell your partner in your pre-game, “Hey I’m really trying to improve my timing would you take a look at me in regard to my timing and let me know what you think?” Now that you’ve asked you’d better be ready for their response. Good or bad be sure to thank them. Even if they tell you things you completely disagree with think about what they said. There is probably some level of truth in there. Find it and use it.

Also, take a look at what others are doing in your area of weakness. Focus on them, and learn from what they are doing be it good or bad. You may be able to see that you are able to take a piece from this person’s game or that person’s game helping you. If for no other reason helping you learn what not to do.

Here are my goals for the 2009 season:

For the upcoming evaluation season I am going to demonstrate my improvement in both evaluation scores and perception in regard to my base mechanics, my partner communication and assertiveness.

Breaking this down to the model above:
Specific
Measurable
Attainable — yes
Realistic — yes
Timely
For the upcoming evaluation season I am going to demonstrate my improvement in both evaluation scores and perception in regard to my base mechanics, my partner communication and assertiveness.

Plan for base mechanics:

1. Continue to bring down my plate to base ratio
2. Make sure when I’m in “B” and there is a pick off attempt I first step to the 45’ with my left foot.
3. Solicit feedback from partners
4. Create a specific section in my game journal to focus on base mechanics
5. Watch and learn more from others

Plan for partner communications:

1. Make this part of the game I actively think about rather than just do
2. Concentrate on eye contact with my partner
3. Be loud enough that I have no doubt my partner hears me
4. Acknowledge my partners communications
5. Solicit feedback from others
6. Create a specific section in my game journal to focus on base mechanics
7. Watch and learn more from others

Plan for assertiveness:

1. Take control from the first minute
2. Have a strong plate conference
3. Address situations, do not ignore them
4. Do not allow coaches or players to show me up in any form
5. Don’t hesitate to pull the trigger if needed
6. Show greater strength and authority on calls
7. Develop a more authoritative strike 3 mechanic
8. Solicit feedback from others
9. Create a specific section in my game journal to focus on base mechanics
10. Watch and learn more from others

I feel confident if I am successful with this goal and plan in mind, I will be successful in terms of promotion next year.

Don’t Be “That Guy”

Forward—I write this not to say I am the world’s greatest umpire, or my partner sucked, because my partner called a good sound game. But I write this as a demonstration of how drastically game management effects the game. I initially I was going to title this article “don’t be a Smitty”, but my partner is hardly a Smitty. He is an experienced guy, has solid mechanics, good rules knowledge, good hustle and great appearance. So he doesn’t fit the “Smitty” label. He just lacks game management skills, which I feel is a strength of mine. My partner is a good guy, good umpire and probably able to use is more outgoing personality to diffuse knotty situations better than I would and I would definitely work with him most any time.

I finally had my first paid games of the season and was really excited to get out on the field. If you’ve seen my posts here or any place else you probably know I live for umpiring. I just wish there would be a way I could make a living at it. You’d be hard pressed to find somebody who is as enamored of umpiring as me. I’d rather have a game with 2 terrible teams than no game at all. But I don’t want to be out there on a game that is dragging out.

So Sunday came my first three “real” games a AAU 13 triple header. In the beginning it was interesting because my partner was also a plate whore, so we had a little discussion on who would be working 2 plates. I actually ended up yielding to him because he is more senior than me. A choice I ended up regretting.

Issue #1 – My partner is very well known in the youth baseball community and a genuine grade A nice guy. One of the nicest guy’s you’ll ever meet. He is an umpire (obviously), a coach, on the board of one of local leagues, and knows virtually every coach, player and parent. Now my issue isn’t that he is well known it is that he is too “chummy” with everybody and that takes away from his authority on the field in my opinion. To explain just a bit better he cannot just say hi to somebody he needs to have a full blown conversation with everybody, and because he knows everybody we get into the how’s your brother, your sister…

Issue #2 – The pre game. We were early enough that even including the socializing we were able to get to the plate and start our plate conference early, which was a good thing. My partners plate conference took at least 5 minutes. We went from potentially starting the game 5-10 min early to starting on time.

Issue 2-A. He continued the socializing with both coaches at the plate conference.

Issue 2-B. Balks

Issue 2-B-i. He asked the coaches how they wanted balks called. This does not need to be discussed. That’s what we are there for as umpires, to make the calls.

Issue 2-B-ii. He asked whether the coaches wanted us to kill the ball on balks. This is an AAU game played under FED rules. There is no option.

Issue 2-B-iii. He then went on to explain to the coaches that under FED the ball is dead and OBR it’s live.

Issue 2-C. Ground rules

Issue 2-C-i. He pointed out every nook and cranny in the field. This does not need to be done. If you need to denote lines for DBT then do that “We taking this opening 90 degrees pole to pole otherwise the field is well enclosed with everything behind the fence” is all that needs to be said.

Issue 2-C-ii. We had a portable batting gage in foul territory up the left field line. This sparked another minute or two long conversation. My partner was asking how to handle that. If this were high school then ask the home coach before the plate meeting. Being that this was AAU and while one team used that field more regularly the term “home team” means much less so the umpire probably needs to be the one making the ground rules and taking control.

Issue 2-C-iii. He then asked me as the BU if I had anything to add. The base umpire never has anything to add, don’t ask. It may be out of courtesy or respect, but don’t ask. Our plate conference went 5+ minuets already. I had glazed over, I wasn’t going to add a peep regardless.

Issue 3. Coaching – My partner is an accomplished coach in the area and I would venture to bet that coaching is probably his true love over umpiring. This probably goes back to the “nice guy” thing as well.

Issue 3-A. Balk. We had a balk we both called. We had the runner on 2nd breaking as the pitcher started his delivery. But while in his delivery wanted to make a play on the runner. The pitcher looked at me questioningly and I told him, “You committed yourself to delivering the pitch.” He nodded and was ready to play. My partner came up to the mound and then began a +/- 2 minute pitching clinic. Complete with my partner toeing the pitchers plate and giving demonstrations of what he did and what he could have done. In the back of my mind all I hear is tick… tick… tick… I do believe pitchers deserve to be told why, but just the basics. In this case I gave my quick explanation and the pitcher seemed to understand and we nearly wrapped it up in 5 seconds.

Issue 3-B. Batter wanting to warm up on the wrong side. This should have been quicker than the balk, but was even longer. My solution would have been, “On deck batter, I need you to remain on your side please. Thank you” without even calling time as he’s attempting to go to the other side. Now I didn’t see him get over there, but wasn’t paying attention for it from the bases, but my partner calls time and begins walking him to the other side talking with him and apparently he offered him the opportunity to warm up behind the fence on the other side, which I wouldn’t have done. He apparently didn’t understand and started warming up behind the fence on his side, and my partner continues. And all I hear is tick…tick…tick…

Issue 4. Booger picking. No, not finger to nose; calling unneeded things. We had a situation where it was obvious that the pitcher was taking his signs directly from the coach. The opposing team hadn’t said anything, but my partner called time walked up to the mound to explain to the pitcher he had to take his signals from the catcher. Then walked to the coach telling him the same. Once again all I can hear is tick… tick… tick…

Issue 5. Between inning management. Now on the positive side I heard him tell each of the catchers every half inning, “Send the 8th/5th one down.” Which is great.

Issue 5-A. He didn’t do much to hustle the teams in/out. I did what I could from the bases clapping and giving some encouraging remarks as they go in or out, but that’s about the most you can do as BU.

Issue 5-B. When catchers weren’t ready, he didn’t say anything to get a coach or another player to warm up the pitcher. As for me, the first thing I do after the 3rd out is look in the dugout for my catcher and see what stage of ready he’s in. If he’s not ready I call for a coach to come warm up the pitcher immediately.

Issue 5-C. Okay, I feel somewhat bad for putting this one in but I still want to include it. Yes, yesterday was an unseasonably warm day which hit the mid-80’s. Plus he was taking 2 plates. Add to that last Monday we had snow and our high temps last week were in the mid-20’s it was a drastic change. But my partner would leave the field and go behind the backstop to get his water and cool off in the shade. We all have different temperature tolerances and while I wouldn’t call him old he’s got a few more miles under his belt than I do. I just felt it was probably more frequent than needed. I probably wouldn’t have cared/noticed if it weren’t for other factors.

Putting this all together the first two games took about 2:30 each to get 6 innings. Our second game started about 40 minutes behind schedule and our third game started over an hour behind schedule.

Well I had the plate for the third game and as I’m walking onto the field the coach tells me that on Sundays they’re not supposed to have the lights on past sunset. I ask him if that means no lights at all or we can use them at dusk. He said he was not sure and had never thought of it that way. I told him if he works with me, and can give me the lights during dusk, I can get the game in before sunset. He smiled and got on the phone to ask about the lights. After the first he told me as long as they’re off by sunset we’re good.

Maybe it’s just me and my typical egotistical, self-serving, big-headded self, but I truly think that by keeping the game moving the way I did everybody was more into the game. The coaches, players and fans seemed to have an extra spark of energy and were much more into the game. There was much more chatter and cheering while the level of play was the same. I did not have a coach question one call or play the entire game. And believe me on this field you do not need rabbit ears to hear every word coming out of the dugout because of the positioning of the dugouts and the plate. These same coaches were giving my partner a bit of a time for anything they thought didn’t go their way and my partner called a sound game. Did I call a better game? No, my partner called a fine game; I managed the game better. I think the coaches didn’t say anything to me on the few pitches that were close when they did say things to my partner because of my presence on the field and the way I managed the game.

We got a complete six inning game in just over 1:30. As I’m giving the balls back to the coach, he said, “I didn’t think you’d be able to do it, but you weren’t kidding.” I was back in my street clothes and on the road before sunset.