jpaco54

Looking for some insight on the pros and cons of the outside chest protector, balloon , for youth church and rec. baseball ages 12 and under. I have been using my Wilson platinum but was getting beat up last year on missed balls by the catcher at this age. Taking shots to the abdomen, arms and thighs. I use the Gerry Davis stance. Any opinions would be great as well as any pointers one may have in technique. Tips! In our organization I saw many senior umps use the balloon in mid-july due to hot weather for higher level ball as well, some 18 age groups travel ball.

I notice that I clench my teeth as the pitch approaches and thought about wearing some type of mouth guard but you think clenching would result head impact if taking a head shot? Thanks!

A few of you have mentioned keeping journals....can you expand on that please? I have a notebook where I have placed game situations that I missed a call or something new I learned in a game, mostly so I dont forget and learn from the experience. Is that what you all use your journals for? I am just looking for some tips on helping me grow as an ump. Thanks in advance for any insight. jpaco

Can someone clarify this for me please. I had a partner, call time at the request of the batter after the pitcher became set. He stated the pitcher paused longer than normal so therefore he granted the time out. Is there a time limit for the pitcher after he becomes Set? I have not seen that only he has 12 seconds to deliver the pitch. Rule 6.02( Umpires will not call “Time” at the request of the batter or any member of his team once the pitcher has started his windup or has come to a set position even though the batter claims “dust in his eyes,” “steamed glasses,” “didn’t get the sign” or for any other cause. Thanks in advance!

Have researched the rules, OBR...the question relates to Rule 8.01(B)...without interruption and in one continuous motion." A pitcher in the stretch with a runner on 1B, starts to throw to 1B while he is bringing his hands together BUT before he becomes Set and he does not step off. Does he have to become Set before he can throw over if he does not step off? Thanks!

I am UI, DC indicates to me he wants to appeal runner leaving early on a fly ball to the outfield. Time had been called. Pitcher has the ball. Coach tells him to throw to third base and appeal running leaving early and pitcher complies before I put the ball into play.. I state to DC that ball has to be put into play first. Ball put into play and the appeal is made. I believe at the time that I followed procedure, but I thought that you can not make an appeal twice. Comments please?

The only way the BR could be out is, if F3 TAGGED BR before he touched first base. Correct?

Just purchased these last week after trying them on twice. First time thought they were a little stiff in the store and then went back and bit the bullet. Purchased for $48 and have been very pleased. Shoe laces a little short but very comfortable. I do competitive youth baseball and usually that involves 3 games on a Sat or Sun lasting for 5 - 6 hours hours. I noticed I did not have the foot fatigue I normally have had and found them comfortable and had good traction. Nice looking shoe, cleans up well. Very pleased and I am very particular about what I put on my feet. Good luck!:banghead:

Well - I used the platinum for another 4 games and most recently took two hard shots - one on the right side and one on the left side and they just bounced off. The noise made it sound worse but grateful for the protection. I have made a few adjustments but it is working in. Thanks for all the insight and recommendations. I did take a third shot that sneaked thru the left shoulder pad and side and made a direct hit on the inside of my bicep. That one hurt and still hurts a few days later.

Thanks for the feedback. I worked on the adjustments and it is nice and snug up tight but it felt better after my first two games on Sat. Have a few more games this week and will be patient with it but I do appreciate the feedback. I searched for over two months deciding on a CP and of course my wife, the wise one, told me to dont go cheap, get the best one to protect yourself, remember you have a real job to go to the next day and 2 kids in college and one next year. All the best. Jpaco54

I know this is an older post but just received my W Platinum last night. (13.5) I am 5'10 175 - I seem to have adjusted the straps Ok, thanks to some of your posts, but I am having trouble with the side pads that protect the Pecs, underarm area. It rubs against my muscles, irritating but also raises the protector when I raise my arms. I am wondering if it is too big or will it work in or can I cut this pad out. Any suggestions. Thanks! Jpaco:(