Member Video: PonyUmpire

[Mudder]

Agree with most of what's been said, and overall very, very nice.

 

Small point.....  At 1:29 of video #4, after the base hit to the outfield, and after you're point to the ground, you walk back to the plate, maybe 6 or 7 steps with you're back to the field then brush the plate.  I don't know maybe its just cause I've worked with a lot of lazy base partners, but I just never turn my back to the field when I'm PU with runners on, never!

 

Too much can happen and get missed, snap pickoff attempt to 1B, while partner is taking his sweet time getting into position, or he's playing with his indicator, etc.

 

Maybe not this age, but with older ages, you'll get pitchers with great mechanics, very quick on and off the rubber, and are extremely aware of runners, and how and when to nail them, and that moment right there where play is relaxed, is when things like that will happen.

[PonyUmpire]

Ok, so I worked a scrimmage yesterday, and tried out a lot of the things that you suggested.  My stance was less wide, I got my head lower, and I brought my fist up higher (almost to top of head) on strike calls (@JaxRolo).  I also re-hemmed my plate pants to make them longer, and let out my belt another notch (@semper_fi_72).  I'm working on giving the ball to F2 on fouls out of play (@LMSANS), but it's a habit I'll have to form.  Next game, which is today, my focus with be on tracking (@ump_24), and breathing (@flastyle727).  Thanks for all your help  .

[bleacher_bum]

I really dig your enthusiasm.  I would love to have you umpire my games.  Good work...

[EchoHotel]

Your timing is really nice. I like the way you stay mostly locked in no head movement. I wish a lot of my partners had pants that good.  Couple of polish items. Put your mask on before you get behind the catcher.  Your strike signal seems low to me.  Signals are meant to be seen get it up.  The hand that is exposed on top of your thigh worries me.  Try to tuck it behind your leg or across your belly.

[Fittske24]

I know you have heard allot about the "throwing the ball back" but I'll add this. Try to look "athletic" with everything that you do. From sweeping the plate, to putting on and pulling off your mask, to throwing the ball back to the pitcher. Appearing athletic, believe it or not, helps add to your credibility as an umpire who is in charge on the field. When you throw the ball back as you do, you don't look very athletic. As a young fit umpire, Try to do everything with purpose and with "energetic control". what I mean by that is that everything should be crisp from how you give the count to how you put the ball in play. Lastly, finish the play. By this I mean for a PU the play is not over until you return to home plate. When you trail a batter runner or come out behind the plate on a base hit, never turn your back on the ball. Always stay chest to the ball and return to the point of the plate. A lot of bad things can happen when you turn your back to the baseball. Keep up the great work!