First Var. Game

[Guest MB]

Hello, what is your advice. I am nervous and want to know that is the best way to handle your first Varsity game of your baseball umpire.

 

[scrounge]

Pitch by pitch, just focus on the next thing, the next situation. Be ready, you didn't get the game by accident so someone knows you're ready. Agree with them. It's just a game. In many ways it's easier than subvarsity. Tell your partner in pregame. And above all else...

 

SLOW DOWN

[maven]

DFIU!

Seriously, though, you'll find it's a bit faster but better ball than you're used to working. You've probably found that it's generally easier to officiate the game as you move up.

It'll be just like all the other games you've worked, only better.

[conbo61]

The only pitch that matters is the next one.

Good luck!!

[umpstu]

5 hours ago, Guest MB said:

Hello, what is your advice. I am nervous and want to know that is the best way to handle your first Varsity game of your baseball umpire.

 

Nothing wrong with slow timing. Don't fall asleep and be surprised.  And remember to breathe.

[scrounge]

Also MB, all those kids you've been umping in freshmen and JV games the last few years? Well, now they're playing varsity. Same kids, they've just grown a little. So have you. There's nothing magical about it. Slow down, enjoy it, and remember it.

[Guest mb]

Thanks for the comments and suggestions, please keep it coming for more tips.

 

mb

 

[noumpere]

14 hours ago, Guest mb said:

Thanks for the comments and suggestions, please keep it coming for more tips.

 

mb

 

"It's just baseball."

 

Keep that in mind.

[ZebraStripes]

Don't suck!  I haven't had my first "varsity" game yet. But I would say just relax and do what you do.

[Aging_Arbiter]

5 hours ago, noumpere said:

"It's just baseball."

 

Keep that in mind.

@noumpere nailed it.  I've learned over the years that when moving "up" to the next step, nerves are usually there.  However, after the first pitch or two, you realize that "It's just baseball"

 

Any update on the game yet?  How did it go?

[Guest]

21 hours ago, Aging_Arbiter said:

@noumpere nailed it.  I've learned over the years that when moving "up" to the next step, nerves are usually there.  However, after the first pitch or two, you realize that "It's just baseball"

 

Any update on the game yet?  How did it go?

Game is next month (April). Don't want to say "when".

[Sprink]

If you get the plate:

Pitches will likely get to you a little sooner so set up a little earlier than usual.

See the pitch into the catchers mitt.

Curves and sliders will likely have a little more movement - don't give up on the pitch, see it into the mitt and good timing will help you make the right call.

Check with other Varsity umpires in your association about the upper limits of their zones.  It will likely be a little lower than the JV and Freshman zone.

Most everything else is just baseball - usually easier as most plays will go where you expect them.  The play is still nothing until you call it so slow down, see the play then make the (right) call.