Interesting reading:

[th3]

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/5394564.html

[Umpire in Chief]

"Time!

Batter let me see you take a practice swing so I can align my zone."

Imagine doing this for each batter...

And they're (rightfully) throwing fits about 4 hour games. Welcome to the all day game gentlemen.

[BrianC14]

This one's better:

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/2020248.pdf

;)

[NovaScotiaBlue]

This one's better:

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/2020248.pdf

That looks a lot like the 1st mask I ever used as an umpire back in 1972.

It was painted green, made of steel with leather pads, and could be used as a great weapon if needed as it weighed a ton