I don't know where you guys, or the game's announcers, got the idea that the call of foul was delayed. First of all, that's irrelevant, for the good umpire will always wait to make sure he sees the entire play or situation before making a call. Secondly, with respect to this particular ball: It wasn't fair by "ten feet." It hugged the foul pole, almost hitting it, as it curved around it. It was so close to the pole itself, then curved around and disappeared right in front of the upper deck score board lights--the board that is fastened to the upper deck section in left field there.
That most likely made the entire play difficult to see properly, causing an optical illusion, which is why Umpire Nelson immediately sought assistance, something we do if for some reason there is a weird occurrence preventing us from properly seeing a play. As much as we don't like when that happens, it does.
BTW, gentlemen, remember this: Umpiring is angle over distance. Always. The proper angle is more important than being "closer" to a play. Think about it.
Full Version: MISCELLANEOUS
QUOTE
The Umpire:
I get the feeling that our friendly neighborhood umpire would have thrown me out of the game if given the chance. 
Cattledog writes: "I am still pissed off about Boone's base hit being called foul in Kansas City on Wednesday when I honestly saw chalk kick up when the ball landed." Chalk huh? The lines in the outfield at Kauffman Stadium are painted, not chalked. Did you see paint flakes kick up? Switching between the ESPN and RSTN telecasts of the play, neither network had a better view of the play than first base umpire Dale Scott. And I suspect that only the right field ballboy and those people sitting in the first two rows of sections 130, 132 or 134 at the stadium had as good of view as the umpire.
The only thing I question during that series is why Yankee manager Joe Torre was not thrown out arguing a check swing call with third base umpire Laz Diaz, specifically when cameras definitively showed Diaz warning Torre not to come out and argue the call. Why was Torre allowed to stay in the game, when he was arguing what was in effect balls and strikes?
The only thing I question during that series is why Yankee manager Joe Torre was not thrown out arguing a check swing call with third base umpire Laz Diaz, specifically when cameras definitively showed Diaz warning Torre not to come out and argue the call. Why was Torre allowed to stay in the game, when he was arguing what was in effect balls and strikes?
QUOTE
coyoteugly
I suspect that only the right field ballboy and those people sitting in the first two rows of sections 130, 132 or 134 at the stadium had as good of view as the umpire.
In that case, maybe they should have asked the ball boy for his interpretation of the call -- I'm sure he would have a completely unbiased opinion. wink
I suspect that only the right field ballboy and those people sitting in the first two rows of sections 130, 132 or 134 at the stadium had as good of view as the umpire.
Hey, Ump. I read this one in today's "This Day In Baseball" column:
"1886 – Louisville's Chicken Wolf hits a game-winning home run thanks to a stray dog tearing at Reds' Abner Powell's pant leg causing the center fielder to miss the ball."
I have three questions:
1. Do you remember what the ruling was on that play?
2. Is this whence the expression "Dog days of August" originates?
3. Ain't "Chicken Wolf" a great name for a ball player?
Thanks. wink
"1886 – Louisville's Chicken Wolf hits a game-winning home run thanks to a stray dog tearing at Reds' Abner Powell's pant leg causing the center fielder to miss the ball."
I have three questions:
1. Do you remember what the ruling was on that play?
2. Is this whence the expression "Dog days of August" originates?
3. Ain't "Chicken Wolf" a great name for a ball player?
Thanks. wink
This past weekend, I watched the Diamondbacks play San Diego in a very interesting game. What puzzled me, was two calls made in the top of the 6th the home plate ump. He called two strikes which were immediately questioned by Gonzo, and then by Brenley. Each man was thrown out of the game, (probably for calling the ump a motherf**ker or something). I think he even made a similar call against the Padres at the bottom of the 6th.
a) how does a team go about formally questioning the calls, and how often is this actually done?
can an ump be "called out" if he makes those kinds of errors of judgemnt?
a) how does a team go about formally questioning the calls, and how often is this actually done?
can an ump be "called out" if he makes those kinds of errors of judgemnt?
QUOTE
smrobbins65:
a) how does a team go about formally questioning the calls, and how often is this actually done?
can an ump be \"called out\" if he makes those kinds of errors of judgemnt?
sm,a) how does a team go about formally questioning the calls, and how often is this actually done?
can an ump be \"called out\" if he makes those kinds of errors of judgemnt? a.) There is no cut and dry rule, per se, that defines how one must question a call. God knows there are plenty of arguments/questioning that occur every game. We let it occur only to a point. If someone wants an explanation, then he should ask politely, without screaming at us or making it personal.
b.) We are subject to ongoing evaluations which determine whether we will be assigned any "special event" games. "Special events" are defined as All-Star or post-season games. Umpires who are evaluated and consistently receive poor marks can be denied a permanent contract offer if they are a AAA guy trying to make it full-time. Furthermore, such guys are subject to being released altogether. For those of us who are already full-time MLB Umpires, it's a lot more complicated than that. Suffice it to say, however, that we are under constant scrutiny.
Hi Ump,
How do umpires rotate the bases during a game? I've noticed sometimes the homeplate umpire is on 3rd base because the 3rd base umpire had to make a call in the outfield or follow a ball down the left field line. I wasn't sure how the other bases rotated. Also, when there is a runner on first base, I've noticed sometimes the 2nd base umpire sets up on the first base side of 2nd base and other times sets up on the 3rd base side of 2nd base. Is this dependent on which way the batter is hitting?
How do umpires rotate the bases during a game? I've noticed sometimes the homeplate umpire is on 3rd base because the 3rd base umpire had to make a call in the outfield or follow a ball down the left field line. I wasn't sure how the other bases rotated. Also, when there is a runner on first base, I've noticed sometimes the 2nd base umpire sets up on the first base side of 2nd base and other times sets up on the 3rd base side of 2nd base. Is this dependent on which way the batter is hitting?
Bill,
It'd take pages to give you a full explanation on 4-man crew mechanics, and even then, there are subtle differences among crews, based on how the crew chief might want something done. For the most part, however, 95% of the mechanics are the same.
In a 4-man crew, the plate umpire will rotate to cover third when the 3rd base umpire goes out for a fly ball coverage. When this happens, the first base umpire will rotate and cover home after releasing the batter-runner around first. The plate umpire will not rotate to third in a two out time play situation. In that case, the second base umpire will rotate backward and watch both second and third.
When the second base umpire is "on the outside" and goes to cover a fly ball, the third base umpire will rotate to cover second. Depending on the situation, the plate umpire will then cover third, and the first base ump home. However, most of the time the third base ump will come in to cover both second and third.
When the first base umpire goes out to cover a fly ball, if there are no runners on or a runner on first base only, usually with less than two outs, the plate umpire will rotate up to first; otherwise, the second base umpire will cover both second and first.
In most crews, the second base umpire is positioned on the "inside" whenever there is a runner on first and/or second and any other combination. Other times he's positioned on the "outside." When he's positioned on the inside, he never goes out to cover any fly balls. Those are left to the wing umpires.
A couple things to emphasize:
Hope this brief synopsis helps. There are many more situations involved. I've just mentioned a few generalities.
It'd take pages to give you a full explanation on 4-man crew mechanics, and even then, there are subtle differences among crews, based on how the crew chief might want something done. For the most part, however, 95% of the mechanics are the same.
In a 4-man crew, the plate umpire will rotate to cover third when the 3rd base umpire goes out for a fly ball coverage. When this happens, the first base umpire will rotate and cover home after releasing the batter-runner around first. The plate umpire will not rotate to third in a two out time play situation. In that case, the second base umpire will rotate backward and watch both second and third.
When the second base umpire is "on the outside" and goes to cover a fly ball, the third base umpire will rotate to cover second. Depending on the situation, the plate umpire will then cover third, and the first base ump home. However, most of the time the third base ump will come in to cover both second and third.
When the first base umpire goes out to cover a fly ball, if there are no runners on or a runner on first base only, usually with less than two outs, the plate umpire will rotate up to first; otherwise, the second base umpire will cover both second and first.
In most crews, the second base umpire is positioned on the "inside" whenever there is a runner on first and/or second and any other combination. Other times he's positioned on the "outside." When he's positioned on the inside, he never goes out to cover any fly balls. Those are left to the wing umpires.
A couple things to emphasize:
- When an umpire goes out, the crew reverts to a 3-man crew; the umpire who went out does not come back until continuous action has ceased.
- Time play situations will dramatically alter the rotation.
- A particular crew might wish to do things a bit differently than another crew.
- Bases loaded with no time play existing will also usually alter the rotation.
- Angle over distance: The angle an umpire gets on a play, even when rotating, is far more important than the distance he has between himself and the play.
Hope this brief synopsis helps. There are many more situations involved. I've just mentioned a few generalities.
Hey, Ump, got a question. I was at the Os-Sox game Monday night and we saw a brouhaha but couldn't figure out what was happening. Turns out Varitek was tossed for arguing an Os hit that was called fair, while (according to the MLB website)...
"Derek Lowe was also tossed for peeking at a replay of the play through a cameraman's view-finder."
I get the Varitek ejection, but what's the deal with the ump tossing Lowe? What did he do wrong? Thanks.
[ September 10, 2003, 08:17 AM: Message edited by: William1865 ]
"Derek Lowe was also tossed for peeking at a replay of the play through a cameraman's view-finder."
I get the Varitek ejection, but what's the deal with the ump tossing Lowe? What did he do wrong? Thanks.
[ September 10, 2003, 08:17 AM: Message edited by: William1865 ]
QUOTE
William1865:
I get the Varitek ejection, but what's the deal with the ump tossing Lowe? What did he do wrong? Thanks.
Hey William,I get the Varitek ejection, but what's the deal with the ump tossing Lowe? What did he do wrong? Thanks.
My understanding of the Lowe ejection was that the second base umpire heard him arguing the call from the dugout and tossed him for the argument.
I kinda wish all sports had soccer's rule of an automatic one game suspension for the game following any ejection.
William, Mr. Lowe said something he shouldn't have said. Tsk, tsk. Time to wash that mouth out with some Ivory or Dial. 
Not sure in what folder to post this but it concerns Kenny Lofton's catch/non-catch in Game 5 of the NLDS between the Braves and Cubs.
The TV commentators reported that the LF line umpire signaled "out" and the RF line umpire signaled "no catch" on the play. Isn't that the 2nd base umpire's call given his proximity to a ball hit virtually to straight away center?
The TV commentators reported that the LF line umpire signaled "out" and the RF line umpire signaled "no catch" on the play. Isn't that the 2nd base umpire's call given his proximity to a ball hit virtually to straight away center?
Also in regards to the catch/not catch, can you explain what happened on that play after Dale Scott made the wrong call? That is, of course, if you had a chance to see the play on videotape--it's not like you were there, or anything.
I thought it was Dale Scott (LF) who called the guy out?
QUOTE
coyoteugly:
The TV commentators reported that the LF line umpire signaled \"out\" and the RF line umpire signaled \"no catch\" on the play. Isn't that the 2nd base umpire's call given his proximity to a ball hit virtually to straight away center?
Angle over distance. Always.The TV commentators reported that the LF line umpire signaled \"out\" and the RF line umpire signaled \"no catch\" on the play. Isn't that the 2nd base umpire's call given his proximity to a ball hit virtually to straight away center?
Whenever the second base umpire is stationed within the infield, he does not cover fly balls, even those hit to dead center, for two reasons: (1) His angle will not be as good as that of the "wing" umpires, ESPECIALLY on trapped balls; (2) He does not leave the infield if he's stationed inside it, for this leaves second base coverage open and will result in excessive and a risky rotation, more so than typical situations where another umpire might otherwise cover second.
QUOTE
GOYANKS4868:
...it's not like you were there, or anything.
Even if I was, Federal Law precludes me from revealing that information. wink
...it's not like you were there, or anything.
QUOTE
coyoteugly:
I thought it was Dale Scott (LF) who called the guy out?
I read that Scott called the play "no catch." Care to chime in , Ump?
I thought it was Dale Scott (LF) who called the guy out?
Goyanks,
That is correct. Dale called no catch.
[ October 07, 2003, 12:24 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
That is correct. Dale called no catch.
[ October 07, 2003, 12:24 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
I wrote "I thought it was Dale Scott (LF) who called the guy out?" I was wrong. That's what I get for listening to McCarver!
QUOTE
coyoteugly:
That's what I get for listening to McCarver!
Serves you right! Listening to McCarver??? Ten Hail Mary's and Ten Our Fathers for YOU! wink
That's what I get for listening to McCarver!
Watching Jerry Crawford leave the game last night for illness, made me wonder that why for the playoffs don't they consider having alternate umpires available in case of injury/illness in the playoffs.
It didn't matter last night in terms of any calls, but if baseball is already expanding to a 6-man crew for that extra outfield coverage, why wouldn't they still want it if something happened, like it did last night.
Thanks
Josh
It didn't matter last night in terms of any calls, but if baseball is already expanding to a 6-man crew for that extra outfield coverage, why wouldn't they still want it if something happened, like it did last night.
Thanks
Josh
It might be a good idea to always have one or two alternate umpires on hand, as the NFL does for big games. It is not presently in our contract, so MLB would have to implement it if they wished.
Hi Ump
This is my first time posting on this thread, so please excuse if you've answered this before or if it's a silly question. But this has been bothering me through all the baseball games I've watched....
What does it mean when the announcers says the pitcher "retired the side." :confused:
What "side" are they talking about? Does this just mean the pitcher got the third out? What's the history on this phrase, if any?
Thanks in advance!
This is my first time posting on this thread, so please excuse if you've answered this before or if it's a silly question. But this has been bothering me through all the baseball games I've watched....
What does it mean when the announcers says the pitcher "retired the side." :confused:
What "side" are they talking about? Does this just mean the pitcher got the third out? What's the history on this phrase, if any?
Thanks in advance!
batboy, first, may I welcome you here and thank you for posting. You'll find I do not bite. 
Feel free to post whenever you wish. There's no such thing as a silly question here, either, if you're seeking an answer.
As far as your question goes, the "side" refers to the batters up to bat in a given half-inning. So, when an announcer says a pitcher retired the side, the announcer means the pitcher got the batters out.
Generally, it's more common to here something like "he struck out the side," which would mean a pitcher got three strikeouts in the half-inning in question.
I'm attempting to give you a very layman's opinion so as not to get too technical. I hope you don't mind.
Cordially...
[ October 10, 2003, 09:26 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
Feel free to post whenever you wish. There's no such thing as a silly question here, either, if you're seeking an answer. As far as your question goes, the "side" refers to the batters up to bat in a given half-inning. So, when an announcer says a pitcher retired the side, the announcer means the pitcher got the batters out.
Generally, it's more common to here something like "he struck out the side," which would mean a pitcher got three strikeouts in the half-inning in question.
I'm attempting to give you a very layman's opinion so as not to get too technical. I hope you don't mind.
Cordially...
[ October 10, 2003, 09:26 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
Thanks Ump for the response! I was hoping it'll be something with a long history in baseball or something. But basically you're saying when they mean "side" they're just talking about the side of the field where batters are waiting to bat? OK, simple enough!
Thanks again!
Thanks again!
Why the blazes was no one ejected from that Game 3 debacle, ESPECIALLY Pedro Martinez after he threatened to hit someone else in the head? I realize that both benches were warned, hence Clemens didn't retaliate, but would it have been outside the realm of baseball protocols to eject Martinez after the THREAT, if not the PITCH?
I thought the whole lot of the criminals in that game on BOTH SIDES should have been suspended for the remainder of the playoffs.
I thought the whole lot of the criminals in that game on BOTH SIDES should have been suspended for the remainder of the playoffs.
QUOTE
batboy:
But basically you're saying when they mean \"side\" they're just talking about the side of the field where batters are waiting to bat? OK, simple enough!
Thanks again!
No, you're misinterpreting my explanation. Look at it this way: When an announcer says "the side was retired," he means the team up to bat, the "side" that was up to bat. But basically you're saying when they mean \"side\" they're just talking about the side of the field where batters are waiting to bat? OK, simple enough!
Thanks again!
It's one of those things that one knows, but is kind of difficult to explain. As far as the history of this term, someone here is going to have to jump in on that. I'm not a baseball historian. My expertise lies in other areas.
QUOTE
DestinyRules:
Why the blazes was no one ejected from that Game 3 debacle, ESPECIALLY Pedro Martinez after he threatened to hit someone else in the head? I realize that both benches were warned, hence Clemens didn't retaliate, but would it have been outside the realm of baseball protocols to eject Martinez after the THREAT, if not the PITCH?
I thought the whole lot of the criminals in that game on BOTH SIDES should have been suspended for the remainder of the playoffs.
Asked and answered
Why the blazes was no one ejected from that Game 3 debacle, ESPECIALLY Pedro Martinez after he threatened to hit someone else in the head? I realize that both benches were warned, hence Clemens didn't retaliate, but would it have been outside the realm of baseball protocols to eject Martinez after the THREAT, if not the PITCH?
I thought the whole lot of the criminals in that game on BOTH SIDES should have been suspended for the remainder of the playoffs.
Hey Ump, I wondered about a situation tonight when Nick Johnson fouled a pitch off his leg.
If he were to be taken out of the game, could Jason Giambi, the DH, fill in at first base while a bench player fills the DH position? I'm assuming so, but I can't remember when a DH went in to play defense during a game.
If he were to be taken out of the game, could Jason Giambi, the DH, fill in at first base while a bench player fills the DH position? I'm assuming so, but I can't remember when a DH went in to play defense during a game.
QUOTE
FeverDog:
Hey Ump, I wondered about a situation tonight when Nick Johnson fouled a pitch off his leg.
If he were to be taken out of the game, could Jason Giambi, the DH, fill in at first base while a bench player fills the DH position? I'm assuming so, but I can't remember when a DH went in to play defense during a game.
While Jason Giambi could have properly gone to play first base, another player could not go in as DH. Once the DH takes a defensive position, the role of the DH is terminated for the remainder of the game.Hey Ump, I wondered about a situation tonight when Nick Johnson fouled a pitch off his leg.
If he were to be taken out of the game, could Jason Giambi, the DH, fill in at first base while a bench player fills the DH position? I'm assuming so, but I can't remember when a DH went in to play defense during a game.
So, in your example, Giambi goes in to play first base and stays in his same spot in the batting order. The pitcher would then bat in the spot of the replaced first baseman.
Hmm, never would have guessed the pitcher would have to bat in this situation. Thanks, Ump!
Does anyone know the last time this happened?
Does anyone know the last time this happened?
Hi Ump,
Your answer to Fever Dog's question has raised my curiosity about pitchers and batting order. Apart from the situation you described above, do pitchers ever bat higher than ninth in the order? Surely a few of them have decent enough averages to warrant a higher 'rank'? Or does 'preservation' always take priority over talent, ie being placed last means fewer at-bats and less opportunities to be hit during a game? I tend to follow more AL teams, where this is a non-issue most of the time, but in the NL games I've seen, I don't think I've ever noticed a pitcher batting anything other than last in the order.
If I can be allowed a second question in the same posting...I haven't followed baseball as long as some people on this board so the answer to this one may be obvious to some, but not to me. I've recently noticed that a hit apparently is not always a hit. I thought a 'hit' means the batter hits the ball and safely reaches base, but it seems that in the case of a fielding error, the batter is not credited with a hit even though he reached first base safely. I suppose there is a logical reason, but I don't understand why the defensive player can't be charged with an error and the batter credited with a hit at the same time.
Your answer to Fever Dog's question has raised my curiosity about pitchers and batting order. Apart from the situation you described above, do pitchers ever bat higher than ninth in the order? Surely a few of them have decent enough averages to warrant a higher 'rank'? Or does 'preservation' always take priority over talent, ie being placed last means fewer at-bats and less opportunities to be hit during a game? I tend to follow more AL teams, where this is a non-issue most of the time, but in the NL games I've seen, I don't think I've ever noticed a pitcher batting anything other than last in the order.
If I can be allowed a second question in the same posting...I haven't followed baseball as long as some people on this board so the answer to this one may be obvious to some, but not to me. I've recently noticed that a hit apparently is not always a hit. I thought a 'hit' means the batter hits the ball and safely reaches base, but it seems that in the case of a fielding error, the batter is not credited with a hit even though he reached first base safely. I suppose there is a logical reason, but I don't understand why the defensive player can't be charged with an error and the batter credited with a hit at the same time.
QUOTE
Marc:
Apart from the situation you described above, do pitchers ever bat higher than ninth in the order?
Didn't Tony LaRussa (St. Louis Cardinals) try hitting certain pitchers 8th, possibly to avoid having the pitcher hit immediately in front of the lead-off hitter?
Apart from the situation you described above, do pitchers ever bat higher than ninth in the order?
It's extremely rare. The only one I could think of is that for one game Steve Carlton batted eighth. So I did a google search and found a Yahoo group on, coincidentally, the Marlins. (It's not a very busy group. The message board has had 46 messages this month. It's had just 23 the entire year prior to October.) Someone there posted a baseball newsletter from July 10, 1998 which included:
Of course, there are some that can go either way and the official scorer has to make the determination. A play can occur that some think the fielder should've handled and gotten the batter out, and therefore the fielder should be given an error, while others look at it and say that it was a difficult play and would have taken an exceptional effort to get the batter, so they give the fielder the benefit of the doubt and think that the batter should be awarded a hit.
QUOTE
LA RUSSA BATS PITCHER EIGHTH AGAINST ASTROS
(AP) - Todd Stottlemyre became the first major league pitcher to bat anywhere but ninth in the order since 1979 when the St. Louis Cardinals had him in the eighth slot against the Houston Astros on Thursday night. Stottlemyre is a diligent hitter who hit .236 with four RBIs last year. This year he was batting just .188 with nine hits, all singles, and he was tied for the staff lead with three RBIs. Stottlemyre went 1-for-2 with a run scored to raise his average to .200 Thursday, but took the loss as he gave up
five runs -- two earned -- in a 5-4 decision. The guy he pushed to No. 9, rookie second baseman Placido Polanco, went 0-for-2 Thursday. He was batting .400 in five at-bats and was making his second major-league start.
The last pitcher to occupy a regular spot in a lineup was Steve Carlton, frequently a tougher out than some of his Philadelphia Phillies teammates, on June 1, 1979. Carlton, who batted ahead of shortstop Bud Harrelson in the game, was 0-for-3 at Cincinnati.
Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said the move has nothing to do with Stottlemyre's hitting skills, and everything to do with getting more men on base ahead of Mark McGwire and Brian Jordan. La Russa, who said he thought about the move during the All-Star break, has had .300 hitters batting ninth before as an American League manager, giving him, in essence, two leadoff hitters. Polanco was supposed to serve that purpose. \"It makes a lot of sense in front of your RBI guys,\" La Russa said. \"And that's all
it is.\"
That's actually an interesting idea. It might be interesting if a manager tried this for an extended period.(AP) - Todd Stottlemyre became the first major league pitcher to bat anywhere but ninth in the order since 1979 when the St. Louis Cardinals had him in the eighth slot against the Houston Astros on Thursday night. Stottlemyre is a diligent hitter who hit .236 with four RBIs last year. This year he was batting just .188 with nine hits, all singles, and he was tied for the staff lead with three RBIs. Stottlemyre went 1-for-2 with a run scored to raise his average to .200 Thursday, but took the loss as he gave up
five runs -- two earned -- in a 5-4 decision. The guy he pushed to No. 9, rookie second baseman Placido Polanco, went 0-for-2 Thursday. He was batting .400 in five at-bats and was making his second major-league start.
The last pitcher to occupy a regular spot in a lineup was Steve Carlton, frequently a tougher out than some of his Philadelphia Phillies teammates, on June 1, 1979. Carlton, who batted ahead of shortstop Bud Harrelson in the game, was 0-for-3 at Cincinnati.
Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said the move has nothing to do with Stottlemyre's hitting skills, and everything to do with getting more men on base ahead of Mark McGwire and Brian Jordan. La Russa, who said he thought about the move during the All-Star break, has had .300 hitters batting ninth before as an American League manager, giving him, in essence, two leadoff hitters. Polanco was supposed to serve that purpose. \"It makes a lot of sense in front of your RBI guys,\" La Russa said. \"And that's all
it is.\"
QUOTE
Marc:
If I can be allowed a second question in the same posting...I haven't followed baseball as long as some people on this board so the answer to this one may be obvious to some, but not to me. I've recently noticed that a hit apparently is not always a hit. I thought a 'hit' means the batter hits the ball and safely reaches base, but it seems that in the case of a fielding error, the batter is not credited with a hit even though he reached first base safely. I suppose there is a logical reason, but I don't understand why the defensive player can't be charged with an error and the batter credited with a hit at the same time.
The reason is simply this: if the fielder doesn't make an error, the batter wouldn't have reached base safely. He would've been out at first.If I can be allowed a second question in the same posting...I haven't followed baseball as long as some people on this board so the answer to this one may be obvious to some, but not to me. I've recently noticed that a hit apparently is not always a hit. I thought a 'hit' means the batter hits the ball and safely reaches base, but it seems that in the case of a fielding error, the batter is not credited with a hit even though he reached first base safely. I suppose there is a logical reason, but I don't understand why the defensive player can't be charged with an error and the batter credited with a hit at the same time.
Of course, there are some that can go either way and the official scorer has to make the determination. A play can occur that some think the fielder should've handled and gotten the batter out, and therefore the fielder should be given an error, while others look at it and say that it was a difficult play and would have taken an exceptional effort to get the batter, so they give the fielder the benefit of the doubt and think that the batter should be awarded a hit.
QUOTE
Marc:
Hi Ump...If I can be allowed a second question in the same posting...I haven't followed baseball as long as some people on this board so the answer to this one may be obvious to some, but not to me. I've recently noticed that a hit apparently is not always a hit. I thought a 'hit' means the batter hits the ball and safely reaches base, but it seems that in the case of a fielding error, the batter is not credited with a hit even though he reached first base safely. I suppose there is a logical reason, but I don't understand why the defensive player can't be charged with an error and the batter credited with a hit at the same time.
Feel free to ask as many questions as you like. There is no limit. Hi Ump...If I can be allowed a second question in the same posting...I haven't followed baseball as long as some people on this board so the answer to this one may be obvious to some, but not to me. I've recently noticed that a hit apparently is not always a hit. I thought a 'hit' means the batter hits the ball and safely reaches base, but it seems that in the case of a fielding error, the batter is not credited with a hit even though he reached first base safely. I suppose there is a logical reason, but I don't understand why the defensive player can't be charged with an error and the batter credited with a hit at the same time.
Since your questions were general baseball ones and were answered already, I needn't add anything else. Do keep popping in here, though.
Thanks for the help, guys. I guess what I really should have asked for is a clear definition of the word 'hit', which I searched for (to no avail) yesterday before posting. Strangely, the MLB official glossary does not seem to have an entry for the word. This seems to be a glaring omission, unless MLB assumes everyone knows the exceptions to what constitutes a hit. However, just now I did find what I think is an accurate definition from another source (italics are mine):
"Hit: A play in which the batter safely reaches a base after hitting the ball, without aid from a fielding error or fielder's choice."
[ October 23, 2003, 01:05 PM: Message edited by: Marc ]
"Hit: A play in which the batter safely reaches a base after hitting the ball, without aid from a fielding error or fielder's choice."
[ October 23, 2003, 01:05 PM: Message edited by: Marc ]
Ump, I'm trying to get more information on the Elias Sports Bureau and potentially working for them. I know they are based out of New York, but they have to have people scattered across the country. I'd like to get more information on them before going through the formal application and resume process. Do you know how/where I can contact somebody who would be able to answer some general questions?
To be honest with you, stinger, while I'm familiar with who Elias is, I don't follow them enough to know how one would apply for work there. You might want to try calling MLB's office in NY, speak with someone there and tell them what you're looking for. They might be able to direct you to the proper source.
Good luck.
Good luck.
Hey Ump - What kinds of stuff do you have planned for the off season? What is your general view of the 2003 Playoffs/World Series. Did the "best" team win? For that matter -Are you glad when certain teams win or lose - or do you just feel whoever won was the better team?? :confused:
[ November 14, 2003, 06:33 AM: Message edited by: copman ]
[ November 14, 2003, 06:33 AM: Message edited by: copman ]
Hello, officer:
I've got some work to get done around the house, so this respite is quite welcome. Other than that, some union business to take care of from time to time, and a little R&R, to say the least.
As far as the offseason just past, it was one of the best in years, mainly because of the involvement of the Chicago Cubs. Like them or not--and I have no feelings either way on that--they rejuvenated baseball in the eyes of America. They provided for a big boost in interest, not to mention ratings, for the postseason.
Did the best team win the World Series? Well, considering it's a best of 7 series, it's very difficult for the "worst" team to win. Winning one game, maybe two, can sometimes be a fluke or the result of a lot of luck, but it takes skill to remain consistently good enough to win a series of 7 games. I do believe the Marlins were the better team, no doubt about it.
When it comes to a team winning or losing, I do not care either way. If I even started to care, this could lead to some kind of subconscious bias, and that is something I have avoided during my entire career. I just go out and do my job with no focus on who's involved or who's winning--or losing, for that matter. I just hope for quick, uneventful games.
I've got some work to get done around the house, so this respite is quite welcome. Other than that, some union business to take care of from time to time, and a little R&R, to say the least.
As far as the offseason just past, it was one of the best in years, mainly because of the involvement of the Chicago Cubs. Like them or not--and I have no feelings either way on that--they rejuvenated baseball in the eyes of America. They provided for a big boost in interest, not to mention ratings, for the postseason.
Did the best team win the World Series? Well, considering it's a best of 7 series, it's very difficult for the "worst" team to win. Winning one game, maybe two, can sometimes be a fluke or the result of a lot of luck, but it takes skill to remain consistently good enough to win a series of 7 games. I do believe the Marlins were the better team, no doubt about it.
When it comes to a team winning or losing, I do not care either way. If I even started to care, this could lead to some kind of subconscious bias, and that is something I have avoided during my entire career. I just go out and do my job with no focus on who's involved or who's winning--or losing, for that matter. I just hope for quick, uneventful games.
Not really a question, but I just wanted to wish our Ump good luck this season.
Okay, I do have a question. Do you work Spring Training? Or is this the time for the younger, less experienced umps to call games?
And how was your off-season? Do you check in on these boards at all? I noticed that you keep mostly to the baseball threads. Ever consider giving us your opinions in, say, the P&R forum?
And, where do you live? If this is too personal, I understand. I'm not asking for a specific city - a general area would suffice. Major metropolitan area? Sleepy southern town? New England? The Pacific Northwest? The Mountain time zone? A coast? Fiji?
Not like it's any of our business...
Okay, I do have a question. Do you work Spring Training? Or is this the time for the younger, less experienced umps to call games?
And how was your off-season? Do you check in on these boards at all? I noticed that you keep mostly to the baseball threads. Ever consider giving us your opinions in, say, the P&R forum?
And, where do you live? If this is too personal, I understand. I'm not asking for a specific city - a general area would suffice. Major metropolitan area? Sleepy southern town? New England? The Pacific Northwest? The Mountain time zone? A coast? Fiji?
Not like it's any of our business...
QUOTE
FeverDog:
Not really a question, but I just wanted to wish our Ump good luck this season.
Thank you.Not really a question, but I just wanted to wish our Ump good luck this season.
QUOTE
Okay, I do have a question. Do you work Spring Training? Or is this the time for the younger, less experienced umps to call games?
And how was your off-season?
My offseason was busier than it probably should have been. I'm involved in union activities and I am involved in some clinics each winter as well. I participate as an instructor in a couple of offseason amateur umpire clinics each winter.
QUOTE
Do you check in on these boards at all? I noticed that you keep mostly to the baseball threads.
QUOTE
Ever consider giving us your opinions in, say, the P&R forum?
No.
QUOTE
And, where do you live?
Hey guys, I am 22 and from Texas, I have been umping high school baseball for 4yrs now. Last night I was calling a game between to of the top teams in the state and was given the supirse of my life. Last year I started calling Jr College ball and was evaluated to move up to the Divison 1 level. After the 3rd inning of the game, My supervisor, who was calling the game with me came to me and handed me a jacket that is the ones that the umps in the Big 12 Confrence where. He told me " Welcome to the Big Time". I was shocked and suprised. I call my first Big 12 seris this weekend and am really nervous about it. Anyone have any ideas to calm my nerves.
Also my bf of 2years proposed to me last night when I got back from my game. "Just a side note lol"
Laters
DJ
Also my bf of 2years proposed to me last night when I got back from my game. "Just a side note lol"
Laters
DJ
Congrats DJ! (on both counts)....as far as advice is concerned, the only thing I would say is to just relax, be yourself and continue doing the same things you've been doing up until now....I know that's easier said than done but clearly it's been working well so far and has enabled you to be viewed in a positive light (both from your supervisor and your boyfriend wink -- btw, did you accept his proposal? -- don't leave us all in suspense ).
Congrats again and please keep us updated on how things work out (I'm sure you'll go great) -- we'd love to hear ....just don't take any crap from any of those Big 12 coaches who disagree with one of your calls, ok.
).Congrats again and please keep us updated on how things work out (I'm sure you'll go great) -- we'd love to hear
....just don't take any crap from any of those Big 12 coaches who disagree with one of your calls, ok.
Yes I did aceept and we told our parents today. He also got good news today, he is a college basketball offical and he got picked to call in the NCAA's
Lata
DJ
Lata
DJ
Aggie, congratulations on your achievements! I am sure you were proud and quite excited on your umpiring advancement. It is a very tough, very competitive, egotistical profession often populated by people who will stab you in the back in a moment's notice. It's too bad often our peers cannot just be happy for us when certain ones of us are chosen for promotion.
Don't ever let anyone refuse to give you credit for your talents, because believe it or not, when you get to the higher levels, politics will take a back seat to quality umpiring. Supervisors will quickly notice the poor umpires, and the fact that they noticed you and moved you up is a testament to your abilities.
I envy your relationship, btw. To me, it would be a perfect world to be in a relationship with someone who just happens to be a sports official. Since it's such a unique and rare profession, finding another who is gay is like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack.
Be supportive of each other. The travel alone is enough to strain your relationship. Don't let it, and keep smilin'!
Cheers...
Don't ever let anyone refuse to give you credit for your talents, because believe it or not, when you get to the higher levels, politics will take a back seat to quality umpiring. Supervisors will quickly notice the poor umpires, and the fact that they noticed you and moved you up is a testament to your abilities.
I envy your relationship, btw. To me, it would be a perfect world to be in a relationship with someone who just happens to be a sports official. Since it's such a unique and rare profession, finding another who is gay is like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack.
Be supportive of each other. The travel alone is enough to strain your relationship. Don't let it, and keep smilin'!
Cheers...
I know what you mean Ump, I deal with the politics all the time. I have been rated in the top 10% in the state for the past several years and have never made it to the state tournment (not that i really want to go). I am exicited about working my fist serise this weekend, I am also very nervous.
This is a little piece of advice I want to put up for all the other sports officals out there that are dating another sports offical. Traveling does makes things hard and causes alot of arguments that shouldn't happen. When me and my bf started dating we where just calling small college and highschool stuff. Now both of us call NCAA levels for Volleyball and either basketball (him) or baseball (me). Whe we started dating we made an agreement that we would have atleast one night a week where we didn't have to go off to a game and that night would be ours. That helps alot. Also if its possible and there is the chance that one of yall is working somewhere and the other is off. Possibly try to go togeather. I know that I always call better and feel more relaxed when he goes with me to work games. Well I guess this is all for now.
Latas,
DJ
This is a little piece of advice I want to put up for all the other sports officals out there that are dating another sports offical. Traveling does makes things hard and causes alot of arguments that shouldn't happen. When me and my bf started dating we where just calling small college and highschool stuff. Now both of us call NCAA levels for Volleyball and either basketball (him) or baseball (me). Whe we started dating we made an agreement that we would have atleast one night a week where we didn't have to go off to a game and that night would be ours. That helps alot. Also if its possible and there is the chance that one of yall is working somewhere and the other is off. Possibly try to go togeather. I know that I always call better and feel more relaxed when he goes with me to work games. Well I guess this is all for now.
Latas,
DJ
It's not easy to avoid feelings of nervousness, Aggie. Such feelings of nervousness and pressure are quite common. Just try to relax and forget about what anyone else thinks and focus on your job. That's what I always try to do. If I let my concentration wander, I'm in trouble.
And remember: Pressure is someone making you do something you don't want to do too quickly.
And remember: Pressure is someone making you do something you don't want to do too quickly.
I have a question about the Questec system. If I heard correctly it's being used again. Are there any changes in how they're using it? Is it being used in every major league park or just those that had it last year? Are they still using it in evaluating an umpire's performance?
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.