poppyfor3

Your next game is an eval. How do you approach it? Confident, anxious, relaxed? Do you intend to "showcase" your strengths, work on your weak points, or let the game dictate your performance? What about your partner? Will he help or hurt? Does he matter at all? Do you know the teams? If so, does that influence anything at all? I.E.--problem coaches or players. Do you do anything out of the ordinary to be ready?

Rather than "notify" the commissioner, could you just ask, diplomatically, about the health of this umpire? Was this umpire just having 1 bad day or is this a constant? What about his partner in game 2? I, for one, would be VERY distracted during the game worrying about my partner. I know nothing about his medical condition, but "dying with his boots on" is not something that anyone needs to witness. How many of us had our eyes on catchers during intense heat? If we can concern ourselves with the health of young players, ought we not step up in this situation? Obviously, this man is aware of his situation and chooses to be out on the field. But does he comprehend his impact on the game itself? If getting him to umpire lower level games would solve this problem, then he can continue to "enjoy" himself and will (hopefully) come to realize that there is a reason for it. Would I work with this umpire? Absolutely!! My pregame would be along the lines " You've got balls and strikes and I have EVERYTHING else. I need you well enough to do another game together some day." Umpiring is something we do, being aware that we are human beings responsible for each other is something we ARE. I am not in any position to judge this man, nor would I. If 2 hours of my life is the price I need to pay, so be it.

Big dog---Which manager?? See my problem? If it's the home team, then the visiting manager wants one too. If it's the visiting manager, then you JUST KNOW THEY'LL BE WHINING about a "homer" ump. Easier and CHEAPER for game management simply to get my BU involved. Then, of course, there is the issue of my aim. But that's a LONG story.

Fall ball down here is primarily instructional for the kids. As such, do you veterans approach these games differently?

Josh Pleased to have you join us here. If possible, before spring, learn the rules, get a mentor, learn the mechanics, learn(know that this may be hard) to RELAX. Your best work will be done when you are relaxed and able to see and think clearly. There are many members here who are not only wise, but are MORE THAN WILLING to guide you. It will be an interesting adventure--- Jack

BIG DOG--Wanted to keep my post short--my bad. My FIRST SHOT is a blank--real cheap--especially considering the results. Not even my partners know this. But as one said "Gives new meaning to a bang bang play at the plate." Hope that sets your mind to rest. Jack

Fall ball starts this week and I have been contacted by SEVERAL league administators who require my expertise in my professional field. Something about rats. Don't know yet about their wallets---so I may or may not be very busy. Moyock pay well? Wiling to do a freebie up there as a courtesy to a fellow brother in blue. PM me if I can help. I do Evaluators at discount. Jack

As a contract killer, I make for an excellent umpire. When doing the plate, I carry 1 ball bag on my left and holster my Glock on my right side. I do not start the game with "Play". I simply fire a warning shot over my partner's head. Helps him focus and let's EVERYONE know that I am in charge. Absolutely no arguments, no check swing appeals, no nonsense at all. Games are surprisingly quick. No! I have never shot anyone during a game. Ammo is too expensive to waste.

Pleased to have you on board. Grandfather,eh? Welcome to my club. A whole new world!! My wife and I are raising 3. If you're looking for the fountain of youth, that's the way to go. No time for aches and pain, no AARP vacations, no "age related" issues.(Even if they do exist.) The Shenandoah Valley is kinda God's way of showing off, if you ask me. Lucky you. Best Regards, Jack

Anyone out there know of an umpire clinic in North Carolina for high school level in the off season? Appreciate ANY HELP.:

Dean, welcome aboard. So, have you given up hockey?? Can't you be deported for a crime like that? Seriously, if you can find an experienced veteran, the road will be so much smoother. If not, these forums are a great aid. I look forward to any stories you care to post as you begin to understand the intracies of AMERICA'S PASTTIME. (Just kidding). Jack

The sun came up today. Your family still loves you. Your full time job is still there. I bet that this is WAY TOO OBVIOUS. However, all the preceding statements are true. If this is the worst thing that happens to you this baseball season---then REJOICE. Believe me, the guys who know you from your posts KNOW how much you want to be your best every time. Hang in---your next eval will be lights out. Jack

I am looking to buy a new timer with any type of alarm(buzzer) that will hang on a fence. Any help out there?? Thanks in advance.

A Dh and enough energy to go bowling??? "C'mon, Blue move your feet, you're killing the grass!!" Just kidding. Sometimes, JUST SOMETIMES, doing the right thing pays dividends. May you have many more.

Just wanted to say hello. As my screen name implies, my wife and I are raising our three grandkids--13,11, 10. Two boys, who play LL Baseball, one girl who plays( and loves) softball. Got started umpiring when I signed the children up for LL when they became eligible. One of the league officials asked about volunteering and I "mistakenly" agreed to umpire. Had a GREAT UIC who was what anyone could wish for. Moved to NC last August. We needed a larger home for the kids to grow. I am in love with NC. Have only umped LL, but am considering adding "big boy" leagues. I have tried my best to improve my knowledge and skill at every turn. To those of you who have posted such great advice on these sites, my sincere thanks. Yes, I am no spring chicken, but I bust it EVERY time I am out there. I would appreciate any one out in NC who can find me associations, mentors, or evalulators to improve me.