This folder is reserved for just what the title specifies. I assume it will be mainly myself posting announcements here, stuff like the assignment of crews and crew chiefs by MLB (usually released each March); news items; special event assignments; etc. Note: Special Events are defined as All-Star and post-season games.
[ March 22, 2004, 03:49 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
Full Version: General Announcements; News Items; Special Events
Two local guys make good as the 2003 All-Star game umpire assignments are:
Tim McClelland (cc)
Larry Young (of Rochelle, IL.)
Gary Darling
Gary Cederstrom
Bill Welke
Mark Carlson (of Joliet, IL.)
Tim McClelland (cc)
Larry Young (of Rochelle, IL.)
Gary Darling
Gary Cederstrom
Bill Welke
Mark Carlson (of Joliet, IL.)
To be held on Tuesday, July 15, of course. 
For Immediate Release:
Joint Committee Announces Two Rule Interpretations
The Major League Baseball Joint Committee on Training, consisting of representatives from MLB’s Umpiring Department and its umpire staff, unanimously agreed to two new rule interpretations at a recent meeting.
The first deals with a live baseball that inadvertently goes inside the uniform of a player or coach on the field, or becomes lodged in the catcher’s mask or gear. At least one such play has occurred this season, another in this year’s spring training, and a third during the 1999 season.
When a live ball enters a player’s uniform or the catcher’s gear, the ball is to be ruled dead and no subsequent outs can be obtained by the defense. The umpire is then directed to employ common sense and fairness and place the runners such that the act of the ball becoming dead is nullified. The umpire may not, however, enforce any outs that he thinks may have occurred had the ball remained live. Outs occurring before the ball went out of play stand.
MLB umpire Jim Reynolds has been on the field for two plays where the ball went into a fielder’s jersey. The first was in St. Louis in September of 1999. “I was working first base and we had runners on first and second,” said Reynolds. “The Cardinals were in the field and there was a ground ball to their third baseman that went into his shirt. When I saw the ball disappear into the jersey I called time and was about to award two bases. That’s because at the time there was a minor league interpretation to cover the play and I knew that MLB did not have an official ruling for it. Tim Welke, who was working the plate and was also the crew chief, awarded all runners one base, saying it was the common sense thing to do.”
It was déjà vu for Reynolds this spring training. “I was again working first base, this time in St. Petersburg, a Devil Rays game. There were no runners on base and the ground ball went into the third baseman’s uniform. I hesitated this time to award two bases because of the play in ‘99. At first we were only going to give him one base, but I conferred with plate umpire and crew chief John Hirschbeck and third base umpire Tim Timmons and we gave the batter second, based on the interpretation we had learned as minor leaguers.”
The third play happened—with a twist—this past June 21 at Toronto. Blue Jays first baseman Carlos Delgado tried to field a ground ball for an out at first when the ball accidentally went into his uniform top. Unable to get it out, he ran to first and touched the base ahead of the batter-runner’s arrival. The batter-runner was ruled out. The new interpretation now forbids such an out; the ball is dead when it goes in the shirt and the batter-runner would be awarded first base.
The new interpretation goes on to emphasize that a ball stuck in a fielder’s glove is not to be considered out of play; the ball remains live. It is legal for one fielder to throw the glove with a live ball stuck in it to another fielder. A fielder who possesses the ball/glove combination in his own hand or glove can complete a tag of a runner or base, just as if he were holding only the ball.
The second interpretation is in regard to a pitcher using the stretch position with no runners on base and failing to come set. The Joint Committee stated that this act is not, in itself, illegal, since the Official Rules do not provide a penalty for it. However, the Committee did emphasize that Official Rule 8.01d prohibits a pitcher from delivering the pitch before the batter is reasonably set in the batter’s box.
The Joint Committee consists of MLB umpires Randy Marsh, Dale Scott, Mark Hirschbeck, and Charlie Reliford and MLB Umpiring Department administrator Tom Lepperd and supervisors Frank Pulli, Steve Palermo, and Rich Rieker. Wally Bell filled in for Hirschbeck, who could not be present. Jeff Nelson also participated.
The Joint Committee put together the first comprehensive MLB Umpire Manual after the National and American League umpiring staffs were combined, completing the manual prior to the 2002 season. The new interpretations will be added to the manual during the coming off-season.
Joint Committee Announces Two Rule Interpretations
The Major League Baseball Joint Committee on Training, consisting of representatives from MLB’s Umpiring Department and its umpire staff, unanimously agreed to two new rule interpretations at a recent meeting.
The first deals with a live baseball that inadvertently goes inside the uniform of a player or coach on the field, or becomes lodged in the catcher’s mask or gear. At least one such play has occurred this season, another in this year’s spring training, and a third during the 1999 season.
When a live ball enters a player’s uniform or the catcher’s gear, the ball is to be ruled dead and no subsequent outs can be obtained by the defense. The umpire is then directed to employ common sense and fairness and place the runners such that the act of the ball becoming dead is nullified. The umpire may not, however, enforce any outs that he thinks may have occurred had the ball remained live. Outs occurring before the ball went out of play stand.
MLB umpire Jim Reynolds has been on the field for two plays where the ball went into a fielder’s jersey. The first was in St. Louis in September of 1999. “I was working first base and we had runners on first and second,” said Reynolds. “The Cardinals were in the field and there was a ground ball to their third baseman that went into his shirt. When I saw the ball disappear into the jersey I called time and was about to award two bases. That’s because at the time there was a minor league interpretation to cover the play and I knew that MLB did not have an official ruling for it. Tim Welke, who was working the plate and was also the crew chief, awarded all runners one base, saying it was the common sense thing to do.”
It was déjà vu for Reynolds this spring training. “I was again working first base, this time in St. Petersburg, a Devil Rays game. There were no runners on base and the ground ball went into the third baseman’s uniform. I hesitated this time to award two bases because of the play in ‘99. At first we were only going to give him one base, but I conferred with plate umpire and crew chief John Hirschbeck and third base umpire Tim Timmons and we gave the batter second, based on the interpretation we had learned as minor leaguers.”
The third play happened—with a twist—this past June 21 at Toronto. Blue Jays first baseman Carlos Delgado tried to field a ground ball for an out at first when the ball accidentally went into his uniform top. Unable to get it out, he ran to first and touched the base ahead of the batter-runner’s arrival. The batter-runner was ruled out. The new interpretation now forbids such an out; the ball is dead when it goes in the shirt and the batter-runner would be awarded first base.
The new interpretation goes on to emphasize that a ball stuck in a fielder’s glove is not to be considered out of play; the ball remains live. It is legal for one fielder to throw the glove with a live ball stuck in it to another fielder. A fielder who possesses the ball/glove combination in his own hand or glove can complete a tag of a runner or base, just as if he were holding only the ball.
The second interpretation is in regard to a pitcher using the stretch position with no runners on base and failing to come set. The Joint Committee stated that this act is not, in itself, illegal, since the Official Rules do not provide a penalty for it. However, the Committee did emphasize that Official Rule 8.01d prohibits a pitcher from delivering the pitch before the batter is reasonably set in the batter’s box.
The Joint Committee consists of MLB umpires Randy Marsh, Dale Scott, Mark Hirschbeck, and Charlie Reliford and MLB Umpiring Department administrator Tom Lepperd and supervisors Frank Pulli, Steve Palermo, and Rich Rieker. Wally Bell filled in for Hirschbeck, who could not be present. Jeff Nelson also participated.
The Joint Committee put together the first comprehensive MLB Umpire Manual after the National and American League umpiring staffs were combined, completing the manual prior to the 2002 season. The new interpretations will be added to the manual during the coming off-season.
QUOTE
The Umpire:
MLB umpire Jim Reynolds has been on the field for two plays where the ball went into a fielder's jersey....
The third play happened-with a twist-this past June 21 at Toronto. Blue Jays first baseman Carlos Delgado tried to field a ground ball for an out at first when the ball accidentally went into his uniform top...
All of this can be avoided with three simple words:MLB umpire Jim Reynolds has been on the field for two plays where the ball went into a fielder's jersey....
The third play happened-with a twist-this past June 21 at Toronto. Blue Jays first baseman Carlos Delgado tried to field a ground ball for an out at first when the ball accidentally went into his uniform top...
No. Shirts. Allowed.
Pervert.
QUOTE
The Umpire:
Pervert.
THAT would be true only if he said No CLOTHES Allowed. Pervert.
That is, unless he's thinking of Freeballing Pat Burrell. Then again, maybe wearing some skivvies might help that Mendoza Line batting average. eek!
Major League Baseball has announced the umpiring crews for the 2003 Division Series.
Bruce Froemming, who had already worked more Division Series than any MLB umpire in history, will be working his 8th DS. Five umpires will be working their first DS.
The four crews are as follows, with first-game position assignments indicated and number of Division Series previously worked in parenthesis:
Ed Montague (Crew Chief) Plate (3)
Ted Barrett 1st base (3)
Paul Emmel 2nd base (1)
Gerry Davis 3rd base (3)
Jim Joyce LF line (5)
Bill Welke RF line (0)
Bruce Froemming (CC) Plate (7)
Hunter Wendelstedt 1st base (0)
Dale Scott 2nd base (4)
Gary Cederstrom 3rd base (1)
Jeff Kellogg LF line (2)
Phil Cuzzi RF line (0)
Randy Marsh (CC) Plate (3)
Eric Cooper 1st base (0)
Wally Bell 2nd base (2)
Gary Darling 3rd base (4)
Tim Welke LF line (3)
Greg Gibson RF line (1)
John Hirschbeck (CC) Plate (3)
Bill Miller 1st base (1)
Brian Gorman 2nd base (4)
Larry Young 3rd base (4)
Ed Rapuano LF line (3)
Mark Wegner RF line (0)
Bruce Froemming, who had already worked more Division Series than any MLB umpire in history, will be working his 8th DS. Five umpires will be working their first DS.
The four crews are as follows, with first-game position assignments indicated and number of Division Series previously worked in parenthesis:
Ed Montague (Crew Chief) Plate (3)
Ted Barrett 1st base (3)
Paul Emmel 2nd base (1)
Gerry Davis 3rd base (3)
Jim Joyce LF line (5)
Bill Welke RF line (0)
Bruce Froemming (CC) Plate (7)
Hunter Wendelstedt 1st base (0)
Dale Scott 2nd base (4)
Gary Cederstrom 3rd base (1)
Jeff Kellogg LF line (2)
Phil Cuzzi RF line (0)
Randy Marsh (CC) Plate (3)
Eric Cooper 1st base (0)
Wally Bell 2nd base (2)
Gary Darling 3rd base (4)
Tim Welke LF line (3)
Greg Gibson RF line (1)
John Hirschbeck (CC) Plate (3)
Bill Miller 1st base (1)
Brian Gorman 2nd base (4)
Larry Young 3rd base (4)
Ed Rapuano LF line (3)
Mark Wegner RF line (0)
So I guess the question now is, "Hey Ump, what are you doing in October?" wink
QUOTE
FeverDog:
So I guess the question now is, \"Hey Ump, what are you doing in October?\" wink
Why, are you asking me out on a date? wink
So I guess the question now is, \"Hey Ump, what are you doing in October?\" wink
Ump, thanks for the info on the umpiring crews for the 2003 Division Series, and congrats if you are one of the umps on the list (as your selection was determined by outstanding performance during the regular season!). One question though, which crews will be umpiring which series? You may not realize it, but when handicapping these games, the umpire behind the plate can make a difference.
Oh, and one more question if you don't mind. Will QuesTec be used in just Network Associates Coliseum (A's), Yankee Stadium (Yankees) and Fenway Park (Red Sox) as was the case during the regular season, or will the other stadiums be outfitted as well for the playoffs and World Series? Thanks!
Jim
Sorry that my Royals came up a little short this year.
Oh, and one more question if you don't mind. Will QuesTec be used in just Network Associates Coliseum (A's), Yankee Stadium (Yankees) and Fenway Park (Red Sox) as was the case during the regular season, or will the other stadiums be outfitted as well for the playoffs and World Series? Thanks!
Jim
Sorry that my Royals came up a little short this year.
Thanks YankeeFan, I appreciate the info. I found it too after the Umpire didn't respond (He doesn't like me because of one of my critical posts in another thread months ago).
coyote, I'm sure that's not the case. He probably hasn't been back on this board since you posted. Hey! Maybe he was on his way to one of the series and couldn't respond.
What do you say, Ump? Was that you?
What do you say, Ump? Was that you?
Coyote - don't take it personally. I once ImdUMP after seeing him online, just to say "HI" = After that he blocked me. It actually hurt my feelings but I got the hint - he didn't want to be friendly to me. Really I'm not a stalker! I guess he has enough friends. frown
QUOTE
coyoteugly:
Thanks YankeeFan, I appreciate the info. I found it too after the Umpire didn't respond (He doesn't like me because of one of my critical posts in another thread months ago).
Poor coyote. Thanks YankeeFan, I appreciate the info. I found it too after the Umpire didn't respond (He doesn't like me because of one of my critical posts in another thread months ago).
Do not fret. I didn't abandon you. I haven't been back here to answer your post. Since the assignments have now been posted by someone else, a response from me is moot.
QUOTE
Originally posted by copman
Coyote - don't take it personally. I once ImdUMP after seeing him online, just to say \"HI\" = After that he blocked me. It actually hurt my feelings but I got the hint - he didn't want to be friendly to me. Really I'm not a stalker! I guess he has enough friends.
Don't take it personally, officer. At that time I did not wish to be contacted via PM's. Any questions someone had for me could have been asked on the forum.
Coyote - don't take it personally. I once ImdUMP after seeing him online, just to say \"HI\" = After that he blocked me. It actually hurt my feelings but I got the hint - he didn't want to be friendly to me. Really I'm not a stalker! I guess he has enough friends.
Major League Baseball recently announced the umpire crews for the respective 2003 League Championship Series.
Jerry Crawford will join Bruce Froemming as the only two umpires in modern MLB history to work 10 League Championship Series. Crawford will be Crew Chief for the National League series. Tim McClelland, also the Crew Chief for the 2003 All Star Game, will lead the ALCS umpiring crew. This will be McClelland’s 5th LCS.
Four umpires will be working their first LCS; Terry Craft (12-year veteran), Chuck Meriwether (12-year veteran), Fieldin Culbreth (7-year veteran), and Alfonso Marquez (4.5-year veteran).
Following are the umpire crews for the MLB League Championship Series. Included are the positions for Opening Games and LCS experience for each umpire:
American League Championship Series:
Tim McClelland (Crew Chief, plate), 5th LCS (1988, 95, 99, 2001)
Terry Craft (1st base), 1st LCS
Alfonso Marquez (2nd base), 1st LCS
Derryl Cousins (3rd base), 4th LCS (1985, 89, 95)
Joe West (LF line), 6th LCS (1981, 86, 88, 93, 96)
Angel Hernandez (RF line), 3rd LCS (2000, 01)
National League Championship Series:
Jerry Crawford (Crew Chief, plate), 10th LCS (1980, 83, 85, 90, 93, 95, 96, 99 2001)
Chuck Meriwether (1st base), 1st LCS
Field Culbreth (2nd base), 1st LCS
Mike Everitt (3rd base), 2nd LCS (2002)
Larry Poncino (LF line), 2nd LCS (1998)
Mike Reilly (RF line), 7th LCS (1983, 87, 91, 96, 97, 2001)
Jerry Crawford will join Bruce Froemming as the only two umpires in modern MLB history to work 10 League Championship Series. Crawford will be Crew Chief for the National League series. Tim McClelland, also the Crew Chief for the 2003 All Star Game, will lead the ALCS umpiring crew. This will be McClelland’s 5th LCS.
Four umpires will be working their first LCS; Terry Craft (12-year veteran), Chuck Meriwether (12-year veteran), Fieldin Culbreth (7-year veteran), and Alfonso Marquez (4.5-year veteran).
Following are the umpire crews for the MLB League Championship Series. Included are the positions for Opening Games and LCS experience for each umpire:
American League Championship Series:
Tim McClelland (Crew Chief, plate), 5th LCS (1988, 95, 99, 2001)
Terry Craft (1st base), 1st LCS
Alfonso Marquez (2nd base), 1st LCS
Derryl Cousins (3rd base), 4th LCS (1985, 89, 95)
Joe West (LF line), 6th LCS (1981, 86, 88, 93, 96)
Angel Hernandez (RF line), 3rd LCS (2000, 01)
National League Championship Series:
Jerry Crawford (Crew Chief, plate), 10th LCS (1980, 83, 85, 90, 93, 95, 96, 99 2001)
Chuck Meriwether (1st base), 1st LCS
Field Culbreth (2nd base), 1st LCS
Mike Everitt (3rd base), 2nd LCS (2002)
Larry Poncino (LF line), 2nd LCS (1998)
Mike Reilly (RF line), 7th LCS (1983, 87, 91, 96, 97, 2001)
[quote]The Umpire:
[quote]
[QUOTE]Originally posted by copman
Coyote - don't take it personally. I once ImdUMP after seeing him online, just to say \"HI\" = After that he blocked me. It actually hurt my feelings but I got the hint - he didn't want to be friendly to me. Really I'm not a stalker! I guess he has enough friends.[/quote]Don't take it personally, officer. At that time I did not wish to be contacted via PM's. Any questions someone had for me could have been asked on the forum. [/quote]Yeah I guess...sometimes I have had conversations with other guys on Outsports about all kinds of topics...I guess you had a lot of people that wanted to talk to you...I always figure that I could always use another friend...But I respect your honesty.
[quote]
[QUOTE]Originally posted by copman
Coyote - don't take it personally. I once ImdUMP after seeing him online, just to say \"HI\" = After that he blocked me. It actually hurt my feelings but I got the hint - he didn't want to be friendly to me. Really I'm not a stalker! I guess he has enough friends.[/quote]Don't take it personally, officer. At that time I did not wish to be contacted via PM's. Any questions someone had for me could have been asked on the forum. [/quote]Yeah I guess...sometimes I have had conversations with other guys on Outsports about all kinds of topics...I guess you had a lot of people that wanted to talk to you...I always figure that I could always use another friend...But I respect your honesty.
Major League Baseball has announced the umpire crew for the 2003 World Series. Twenty-two year MLB veteran Randy Marsh is the Crew Chief and will be working his fourth World Series. Gary Darling will be working his first World Series. The crew represents 103 seasons of Major League experience.
Following is the umpire crew for the 2003 World Series. Included is the assignment of the Crew Chief and positions for the Opening Game, also years of World Series experience for each umpire:
Following is the umpire crew for the 2003 World Series. Included is the assignment of the Crew Chief and positions for the Opening Game, also years of World Series experience for each umpire:
- Randy Marsh (Crew Chief, plate), 4th WS (1990, 97, 99)
- Larry Young (1st base), 2nd WS (1996)
- Gary Darling (2nd base), 1st WS
- Jeff Kellogg (3rd base), 2nd WS (2000)
- Ed Rapuano (LF line), 2nd WS (2001)
- Tim Welke (RF line), 3rd WS (1996, 2000)
Ok, I am a highschool and College umpire. So this probly sounds really stupid. During the world seris and other playoffs a the professional level. Do the umpires have a rotation that they follow or do they work the same postion for every game of the seris.
DJ
DJ
Hi, Aggie:
We rotate positions from game to game. Since there are 6 umpires in special event games, the rotation goes as such:
Plate-->right field line-->left field line-->third base-->second base-->first base-->plate
Once a guy finishes his assigned position, for the next game he rotates to the next spot as listed above.
We rotate positions from game to game. Since there are 6 umpires in special event games, the rotation goes as such:
Plate-->right field line-->left field line-->third base-->second base-->first base-->plate
Once a guy finishes his assigned position, for the next game he rotates to the next spot as listed above.
Thanks UMP, I know the 3 man and 4 man rotations that we use, but I have never had to do rotations for a 6 man crew.
DJ
DJ
i don't have the verbal acuity to say it eloquently, so i'll say it simply. thank you ump for another great season!
i know at times you must roll your eyes and mutter to yourself, "no good deed goes unpunished!"
but trust me, "we like you, we really like you!" and i'm sure i speak for all the outsports baseball fans when i say that your column makes our baseball viewing and participation a richer experience.
Thank you again for your time, patience, expertise, and curmudgeon-like demeanor!
Have a great winter.
i know at times you must roll your eyes and mutter to yourself, "no good deed goes unpunished!"
but trust me, "we like you, we really like you!" and i'm sure i speak for all the outsports baseball fans when i say that your column makes our baseball viewing and participation a richer experience.
Thank you again for your time, patience, expertise, and curmudgeon-like demeanor!
Have a great winter.
QUOTE
thersis:
i don't have the verbal acuity to say it eloquently, so i'll say it simply. thank you ump for another great season!
You are more eloquent than you realize, thersis, for your intent and words are much more important than any type of verbal acuity.i don't have the verbal acuity to say it eloquently, so i'll say it simply. thank you ump for another great season!
QUOTE
i know at times you must roll your eyes and mutter to yourself, \"no good deed goes unpunished!\"
wink QUOTE
but trust me, \"we like you, we really like you!\" and i'm sure i speak for all the outsports baseball fans when i say that your column makes our baseball viewing and participation a richer experience.
I'd still do the column even if I was not liked, but it always feels nicer to be liked. (Ump takes out a kleenex, must be something in his eye. What's that?!? It's nothing, because there's no crying in baseball!)
QUOTE
Thank you again for your time, patience, expertise, and curmudgeon-like demeanor!
Have a great winter.
And winter? Well, it doesn't get that cold where I live.
[ October 27, 2003, 09:03 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
Yep - thanx for your column,Ump - I've learned lot of baseball info & rules from you.
I'll second the comments made by thersis and copman (or should that be third their comments? )....anyway, thanks for all the insight that you provide here, ump, along with the patience you exhibit when responding to "basic" questions from some of the games newest fans.....no one is ever too old to start enjoying the many treasures that baseball provides and without this "new blood" that you help to appreciate the nuances of the game, the sport would really be in dire straits in a few years.
Have an enjoyable offseason, ump....I'm sure spring training in March will be here before you know it.
)....anyway, thanks for all the insight that you provide here, ump, along with the patience you exhibit when responding to "basic" questions from some of the games newest fans.....no one is ever too old to start enjoying the many treasures that baseball provides and without this "new blood" that you help to appreciate the nuances of the game, the sport would really be in dire straits in a few years.Have an enjoyable offseason, ump....I'm sure spring training in March will be here before you know it.
Enjoy your off-season, Ump!
QUOTE
gamecock:
I'll second the comments made by thersis and copman (or should that be third their comments? )
The motion has been seconded. All in favor say \"Aye!\" I'll second the comments made by thersis and copman (or should that be third their comments?
) The motion carries unanimously. (Ump in his best Elvis Presley voice: \"Thank you, thank you very much.\")
QUOTE
....anyway, thanks for all the insight that you provide here, ump, along with the patience you exhibit when responding to \"basic\" questions from some of the games newest fans.....no one is ever too old to start enjoying the many treasures that baseball provides and without this \"new blood\" that you help to appreciate the nuances of the game, the sport would really be in dire straits in a few years.
I feel as though...oh, never mind. If I keep babbling like this I'll begin to think I've got a heart and am basically a good guy, which would make me wonder why I'm still single.
QUOTE
Have an enjoyable offseason, ump....I'm sure spring training in March will be here before you know it.
I received an Email from my friend Rick Roder of rulesofbaseball.com regarding his newest book. I've read it and admit it's great stuff. Those of you who may wish to attend umpire school, or those of you who simply wish to find out what it takes to become a professional baseball umpire will find this informative and cool reading. I don't think I've ever seen anything like it to date.
Anyone who wishes to order this can CLICK HERE
Just think, if everyone orders this, there'd be no more questions to ask me here. I don't know if that'd be good or bad. :confused:
QUOTE
From Rick's Email to me
Hey, NNNNNN:
When I umpired professionally and taught at the Brinkman umpire school, I'll bet I was asked a couple thousand times, \"How do you become a professional umpire?\" and \"What does it take to make the Major Leagues?\"
Of course, the answer always began with, \"Well, it ain't easy...\"
Only lately did I begin to think about it on a deeper level. People not only need the complete answers to these questions, they deserve them!
You know, professional umpiring is a unique and great job in a lot of ways, but one thing always bothered me: No one would sit down and tell you EVERYTHING that was involved in getting into and succeeding at the job!
At least until now.
I am proud to announce my latest book, Baseball's Narrowest Door: How to Become a Professional Umpire. It is the only book of its kind in the world!
I think Joe Brinkman, MLB umpire and crew chief, summarized this terrific new book best when he said, \"At long last, most of the information umpires need for a run at the major leagues has been compiled.\"
I help you make an assessment of your umpiring aspirations, tell you the best approaches to a successful umpire school experience, answer frequently asked questions about the job and schools, tell you about the pay, travel, bosses, how long it might take to make it, what minor league life is like, etc., etc.
When you get this book I'll bet you have the same experience as MLB umpire Jeff Nelson. Jeff picked up my book while working a San Francisco Giants series this past season and couldn't put it down! It took him completely out of his pregame routine.
And there's more. Baseball’s Narrowest Door contains many interesting umpire facts, giving a sense of the traditions and accomplishments associated with Major League umpires: the first MLB umpires from various ethnic groups…longest games worked…most post-season games worked…Hall of Fame umpires…women who are/were professional umpires…former professional umpires who made good elsewhere (such as Brent Musburger)…great umpire quotes…MLB umpires who are father/son or brothers…etc…etc.
In fact, after MLB umpire Ted Barrett read my book, he said, \"I predict that this book will have a much wider audience than just aspiring umpires. As usual, Roder exceeds all expectations when he sits down to do a book.\"
And Jeff Nelson said this book should be required reading for anyone who plans to attend umpire school!
Best of all, this terrific new book is available just in time for Christmas! Have any baseball lovers on your Christmas list? Need a unique gift, a fresh look at the game? Something to supplement the same old baseball literature you seem to find every year? Baseball’s Narrowest Door is your answer!
So get your copy now! The book is 128 pages, perfectbound (paperback), 6 x 9 inches, and the price is $21.99 plus $3 shipping and handling ($24.99 total).
You can order using your credit card at my website, www.rulesofbaseball.com, or just reply to this message and I can invoice you by email. If you'd rather send a check or order by phone, that's fine, too. My contact information is below. Please don't hesitate to call me if you have questions or comments.
I'll leave you with a quote from Branch B. Rickey, the President of the Pacific Coast League (Triple-A), who wrote the insightful foreword of Baseball's Narrowest Door. Mr. Rickey said, \"For anyone with interests in the field of baseball officiating, this work is contagious.\"
###Hey, NNNNNN:
When I umpired professionally and taught at the Brinkman umpire school, I'll bet I was asked a couple thousand times, \"How do you become a professional umpire?\" and \"What does it take to make the Major Leagues?\"
Of course, the answer always began with, \"Well, it ain't easy...\"
Only lately did I begin to think about it on a deeper level. People not only need the complete answers to these questions, they deserve them!
You know, professional umpiring is a unique and great job in a lot of ways, but one thing always bothered me: No one would sit down and tell you EVERYTHING that was involved in getting into and succeeding at the job!
At least until now.
I am proud to announce my latest book, Baseball's Narrowest Door: How to Become a Professional Umpire. It is the only book of its kind in the world!
I think Joe Brinkman, MLB umpire and crew chief, summarized this terrific new book best when he said, \"At long last, most of the information umpires need for a run at the major leagues has been compiled.\"
I help you make an assessment of your umpiring aspirations, tell you the best approaches to a successful umpire school experience, answer frequently asked questions about the job and schools, tell you about the pay, travel, bosses, how long it might take to make it, what minor league life is like, etc., etc.
When you get this book I'll bet you have the same experience as MLB umpire Jeff Nelson. Jeff picked up my book while working a San Francisco Giants series this past season and couldn't put it down! It took him completely out of his pregame routine.
And there's more. Baseball’s Narrowest Door contains many interesting umpire facts, giving a sense of the traditions and accomplishments associated with Major League umpires: the first MLB umpires from various ethnic groups…longest games worked…most post-season games worked…Hall of Fame umpires…women who are/were professional umpires…former professional umpires who made good elsewhere (such as Brent Musburger)…great umpire quotes…MLB umpires who are father/son or brothers…etc…etc.
In fact, after MLB umpire Ted Barrett read my book, he said, \"I predict that this book will have a much wider audience than just aspiring umpires. As usual, Roder exceeds all expectations when he sits down to do a book.\"
And Jeff Nelson said this book should be required reading for anyone who plans to attend umpire school!
Best of all, this terrific new book is available just in time for Christmas! Have any baseball lovers on your Christmas list? Need a unique gift, a fresh look at the game? Something to supplement the same old baseball literature you seem to find every year? Baseball’s Narrowest Door is your answer!
So get your copy now! The book is 128 pages, perfectbound (paperback), 6 x 9 inches, and the price is $21.99 plus $3 shipping and handling ($24.99 total).
You can order using your credit card at my website, www.rulesofbaseball.com, or just reply to this message and I can invoice you by email. If you'd rather send a check or order by phone, that's fine, too. My contact information is below. Please don't hesitate to call me if you have questions or comments.
I'll leave you with a quote from Branch B. Rickey, the President of the Pacific Coast League (Triple-A), who wrote the insightful foreword of Baseball's Narrowest Door. Mr. Rickey said, \"For anyone with interests in the field of baseball officiating, this work is contagious.\"
Anyone who wishes to order this can CLICK HERE
Just think, if everyone orders this, there'd be no more questions to ask me here. I don't know if that'd be good or bad. :confused:
Cool! Thanks for the info, Ump. Any chance of getting an autographed copy?
BTW, while I'm here, did you ever get that PM about your trip to Chicago for your property search?
[ December 08, 2003, 07:41 PM: Message edited by: MIB ]
BTW, while I'm here, did you ever get that PM about your trip to Chicago for your property search?
[ December 08, 2003, 07:41 PM: Message edited by: MIB ]
Come see us in Dallas this weekend:
Larry Young and Friends Charity Hosting Dallas Event
MLB umpire Larry Young recently announced that his charity, Larry Young and Friends, will hold a charitable silent auction in the Dallas metro area on Saturday January 10, 2004 .
Young said, “Our foundation has been conducting a variety of fund raising events in my community ( Roscoe , Illinois ) for several years. We now have the opportunity to expand and are really looking forward to the good that can come from this event.”
The auction will occur the day before many MLB umpires gather for their winter union meetings. Arrangements for the event have been made at the Holiday Inn in Richardson , Texas , located at 1655 North Central.
Young indicated that proceeds from the auction will be directed to three causes. The Global Light Foundation helps underprivileged kids in the Dallas metro area. The Special Olympics, a favorite charity of Larry Young and Friends, provides year-round sports training and competition for mentally challenged people. And the Helping Hand Fund assists the nine umpires who lost their MLB jobs after the 1999 labor strife.
Many items have already been donated, including a Kirby Puckett bat, Richard Petty Ride Along pass (3-lap stock car ride at Daytona Speedway), Southwest Airlines tickets, 2003 World Series memorabilia, guitar autographed by rock group Deep Blue Something, Dell software, restaurant certificates, artwork, and a Terrell Owen autographed football.
The event will include a DJ, hors d'oeuvres, and refreshments, and is scheduled for 1:00 to 5:00 PM . Donations are being accepted by Larry Young and Friends Charities, PO Box 255 , Roscoe , IL 61073.
Larry Young and Friends Charity Hosting Dallas Event
MLB umpire Larry Young recently announced that his charity, Larry Young and Friends, will hold a charitable silent auction in the Dallas metro area on Saturday January 10, 2004 .
Young said, “Our foundation has been conducting a variety of fund raising events in my community ( Roscoe , Illinois ) for several years. We now have the opportunity to expand and are really looking forward to the good that can come from this event.”
The auction will occur the day before many MLB umpires gather for their winter union meetings. Arrangements for the event have been made at the Holiday Inn in Richardson , Texas , located at 1655 North Central.
Young indicated that proceeds from the auction will be directed to three causes. The Global Light Foundation helps underprivileged kids in the Dallas metro area. The Special Olympics, a favorite charity of Larry Young and Friends, provides year-round sports training and competition for mentally challenged people. And the Helping Hand Fund assists the nine umpires who lost their MLB jobs after the 1999 labor strife.
Many items have already been donated, including a Kirby Puckett bat, Richard Petty Ride Along pass (3-lap stock car ride at Daytona Speedway), Southwest Airlines tickets, 2003 World Series memorabilia, guitar autographed by rock group Deep Blue Something, Dell software, restaurant certificates, artwork, and a Terrell Owen autographed football.
The event will include a DJ, hors d'oeuvres, and refreshments, and is scheduled for 1:00 to 5:00 PM . Donations are being accepted by Larry Young and Friends Charities, PO Box 255 , Roscoe , IL 61073.
He will be missed. Good-bye to a friend.
The passing of a legend in umpiring.
[ January 15, 2004, 08:34 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
The passing of a legend in umpiring.
[ January 15, 2004, 08:34 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
The link regarding the passing of the legend in umpiring doesn't work.
As for Iassogna being hired full-time...well, the less said the better...
As for Iassogna being hired full-time...well, the less said the better...
Thanks, Joe, for letting me know about the link. I believe I have fixed it.
Wise decision re. Iassogna, probably because I don't know if you're alluding to him or Rippley. wink
Wise decision re. Iassogna, probably because I don't know if you're alluding to him or Rippley. wink
The link works now. It's interesting that Mr. Butler worked as an umpire supervisor for quite some time yet there's no mention of his actually being an umpire. I would think that might be a problem but apparently it wasn't.
My other comment was strictly a commentary on Iassogna, not Rippley.
My other comment was strictly a commentary on Iassogna, not Rippley.
Joe, Dick was a minor league umpire many Moons ago. He also worked on the amateur level.
Congratulations to Charlie Reliford, promoted to Crew Chief.
Congratulations to Gary Darling, promoted to Crew Chief.
2004 MLB Umpire Crews
Note: This will change due to Derryl's being on the DL. He is on Joe Brinkman's crew, so when Derryl returns, Tim Tschida and/or Jeff Nelson will most likely be switched, as will a few of us on other crews.
Appointment of Crew Chiefs
Each year the Office of the Commissioner shall appoint an umpire to act as the Crew Chief for each of the crews formed for the championship season. While the Office of the Commissioner may consider seniority along with other factors that it may deem appropriate when exercising its appointment discretion, seniority shall not control in the Office of the Commissioner's choice of Crew Chiefs.
The Crew Chief shall coordinate and direct his crew's compliance with the Office of the Commissioner's rules and policies. Other Crew Chief responsibilities include: leading periodic discussions and reviews of situations, plays and rules with his crew; generally directing the work of the other umpires on the crew, with particular emphasis on uniformity in dealing with unique situations; assigning responsibilities for maintaining time limits during the game; ensuring the timely filing of all required crew reports for incidents such as ejections, brawls and protested games; and reporting to the Office of Commissioner any irregularity in field conditions at any ballpark.
Below are the crews for the 2004 championship season. Crew Chiefs are noted with the letters (cc) after their name.
Crew A
Tim Welke - cc
Gary Cederstrom
Jim Reynolds
Andy Fletcher
Crew B
Ed Montague - cc
Jerry Layne
Jerry Meals
Paul Schrieber
Crew C
Tim McClelland - cc
Fieldin Culbreth
Tony Randazzo
Jim Wolf
Crew D
Rick Reed - cc
Ed Rapuano
Ted Barrett
Alfonso Marquez
Crew E
Dale Scott - cc
Brian Gorman
Bill Miller
Ron Kulpa
Crew F
Joe Brinkman - cc
Tim Tschida
Jeff Nelson
Marty Foster
Crew G
Jerry Crawford - cc
Brian O'Nora
Phil Cuzzi
AAA fill-in
Crew H
Mike Reilly - cc
Chuck Meriwether
CB Bucknor
Eric Cooper
Crew I
Gary Darling - cc
Bill Hohn
Brian Runge
Mark Carlson
Crew J
Joe West - cc
Terry Craft
Mike DiMuro
Paul Emmel
Crew K
John Hirschbeck - cc
Wally Bell
Lazaro Diaz
Bill Welke
Crew L
Dana DeMuth - cc
Jim Joyce
Kerwin Danley
Marvin Hudson
Crew M
Charlie Reliford - cc
Jeff Kellogg
Doug Eddings
Dan Iassogna
Crew N
Gerry Davis - cc
Larry Poncino
Greg Gibson
Bruce Dreckman
Crew O
Randy Marsh - cc
Larry Vanover
Sam Holbrook
Paul Nauert
Crew P
Larry Young - cc
Angel Hernandez
Mike Everitt
Mark Wegner
Crew Q
Bruce Froemming - cc
Mike Winters
Hunter Wendelstedt
Tim Timmons
DL
Derryl Cousins
[ April 17, 2004, 05:39 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
Note: This will change due to Derryl's being on the DL. He is on Joe Brinkman's crew, so when Derryl returns, Tim Tschida and/or Jeff Nelson will most likely be switched, as will a few of us on other crews.
Appointment of Crew Chiefs
Each year the Office of the Commissioner shall appoint an umpire to act as the Crew Chief for each of the crews formed for the championship season. While the Office of the Commissioner may consider seniority along with other factors that it may deem appropriate when exercising its appointment discretion, seniority shall not control in the Office of the Commissioner's choice of Crew Chiefs.
The Crew Chief shall coordinate and direct his crew's compliance with the Office of the Commissioner's rules and policies. Other Crew Chief responsibilities include: leading periodic discussions and reviews of situations, plays and rules with his crew; generally directing the work of the other umpires on the crew, with particular emphasis on uniformity in dealing with unique situations; assigning responsibilities for maintaining time limits during the game; ensuring the timely filing of all required crew reports for incidents such as ejections, brawls and protested games; and reporting to the Office of Commissioner any irregularity in field conditions at any ballpark.
Below are the crews for the 2004 championship season. Crew Chiefs are noted with the letters (cc) after their name.
Crew A
Tim Welke - cc
Gary Cederstrom
Jim Reynolds
Andy Fletcher
Crew B
Ed Montague - cc
Jerry Layne
Jerry Meals
Paul Schrieber
Crew C
Tim McClelland - cc
Fieldin Culbreth
Tony Randazzo
Jim Wolf
Crew D
Rick Reed - cc
Ed Rapuano
Ted Barrett
Alfonso Marquez
Crew E
Dale Scott - cc
Brian Gorman
Bill Miller
Ron Kulpa
Crew F
Joe Brinkman - cc
Tim Tschida
Jeff Nelson
Marty Foster
Crew G
Jerry Crawford - cc
Brian O'Nora
Phil Cuzzi
AAA fill-in
Crew H
Mike Reilly - cc
Chuck Meriwether
CB Bucknor
Eric Cooper
Crew I
Gary Darling - cc
Bill Hohn
Brian Runge
Mark Carlson
Crew J
Joe West - cc
Terry Craft
Mike DiMuro
Paul Emmel
Crew K
John Hirschbeck - cc
Wally Bell
Lazaro Diaz
Bill Welke
Crew L
Dana DeMuth - cc
Jim Joyce
Kerwin Danley
Marvin Hudson
Crew M
Charlie Reliford - cc
Jeff Kellogg
Doug Eddings
Dan Iassogna
Crew N
Gerry Davis - cc
Larry Poncino
Greg Gibson
Bruce Dreckman
Crew O
Randy Marsh - cc
Larry Vanover
Sam Holbrook
Paul Nauert
Crew P
Larry Young - cc
Angel Hernandez
Mike Everitt
Mark Wegner
Crew Q
Bruce Froemming - cc
Mike Winters
Hunter Wendelstedt
Tim Timmons
DL
Derryl Cousins
[ April 17, 2004, 05:39 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
QUOTE
The Umpire:
Below are the crews for the 2004 championship season. Crew Chiefs are noted with the letters (cc) after their name.
Crew C
Tim McClelland - cc
Fieldin Culbreth
Tony Randazzo
TBD
Wow, I'm scooping the Ump! Below are the crews for the 2004 championship season. Crew Chiefs are noted with the letters (cc) after their name.
Crew C
Tim McClelland - cc
Fieldin Culbreth
Tony Randazzo
TBD
According to this article, the final member of this crew is....Jim Wolf, brother of Phillies pitcher Randy Wolf.
Well, I DID know about this earlier in the week. I just never got around to updating it here.
Thanks for saving me the trouble though, Joe.
Thanks for saving me the trouble though, Joe.
I thought Mark Hirschbeck was a crew chief and was still umpiring. Did he retire already?
Yes, Mark retired due to a lingering injury. He was replaced on the staff by Jim wolf. Gary Darling was promoted to crew chief to replace the vacant CC position.
[ April 20, 2004, 09:57 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
[ April 20, 2004, 09:57 PM: Message edited by: The Umpire ]
I meant to get this info posted last weekend, but I've been a bit busy.
Umpires for 75th All-Star Game in Houston
Veteran Major League Baseball Umpire Ed Montague will work behind the plate at the 75th All-Star Game, to be played Tuesday, July 13 at Minute Maid Park in Houston.
Montague, a Crew Chief in his 29th season, has worked three previous All-Star Games. His first Midsummer Classic was in 1982 at Olympic Stadium in Montreal. Montague also worked the 1990 Game at Wrigley Field in Chicago and the 1998 Game at Coors Field in Denver. This year's umpiring crew in Houston will also include John Hirschbeck (1B), Doug Eddings (2B), Jim Reynolds (3B), Marvin Hudson (LF), and Sam Holbrook (RF).
Hirschbeck, a regular-season Crew Chief in his 21st season of Major League Baseball, was a part of the All-Star crew for the 1989 Game in Anaheim. Eddings, Reynolds, Hudson and Holbrook will each be making their first trip to the All-Star Game. Eddings is in his sixth year of service, while Reynolds and Hudson are both in their fifth Major League season. Holbrook is in his fourth year as a Major League Umpire.
Umpires for 75th All-Star Game in Houston
Veteran Major League Baseball Umpire Ed Montague will work behind the plate at the 75th All-Star Game, to be played Tuesday, July 13 at Minute Maid Park in Houston.
Montague, a Crew Chief in his 29th season, has worked three previous All-Star Games. His first Midsummer Classic was in 1982 at Olympic Stadium in Montreal. Montague also worked the 1990 Game at Wrigley Field in Chicago and the 1998 Game at Coors Field in Denver. This year's umpiring crew in Houston will also include John Hirschbeck (1B), Doug Eddings (2B), Jim Reynolds (3B), Marvin Hudson (LF), and Sam Holbrook (RF).
Hirschbeck, a regular-season Crew Chief in his 21st season of Major League Baseball, was a part of the All-Star crew for the 1989 Game in Anaheim. Eddings, Reynolds, Hudson and Holbrook will each be making their first trip to the All-Star Game. Eddings is in his sixth year of service, while Reynolds and Hudson are both in their fifth Major League season. Holbrook is in his fourth year as a Major League Umpire.
Also posted in the Miscellaneous section as a reply:
CREW #1
ALDS--Minnesota Twins and New York Yankees
Game One-- Umpire-- Previous DS Worked
HP Charlie Reliford 3 ('95, '97, '00)
1B Mark Wegner 1 ('03)
2B Brian Gorman 5 ('97,'99,'00,'01,'03)
3B Mike Everitt 1 ('01)
LF Jerry Crawford* 3 ('81,'00,'02)
RF Paul Nauert 0
CREW #2
NLDS--Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves
Game One-- Umpire-- Previous DS Worked
HP Tim McClelland 3 ('97,'00,'02)
1B Phil Cuzzi 1 ('03)
2B Wally Bell 3 ('98,'99,'03)
3B Fieldin Culbreth 1 ('02)
LF Joe Brinkman* 4 ('81,'95,'98,'99)
RF Tony Randazzo 0
CREW #3
ALDS--Boston Red Sox and Anaheim Angels
Game One-- Umpire-- Previous DS Worked
HP Larry Young 5 ('96,'99,'00,'01,'03)
1B Jerry Meals 1 ('99)
2B Brian Runge 0
3B Gary Cederstrom 2 ('00,'03)
LF Ed Montague* 4 ('81,'95,'00,'03)
RF Kerwin Danley 2 ('00,'01)
CREW #4
NLDS--Los Angeles Dodgers and St. Louis Cardinals
Game One-- Umpire-- Previous DS Worked
HP Dale Scott 5 ('95,'97,'98,'01,'03)
1B Greg Gibson 2 ('01,'03)
2B Chuck Meriwether 5 ('98,'99,'00, '01,'02)
3B Bruce Dreckman 0
LF Gerry Davis* 4 ('96,'99,'02,'03)
RF Brian O'Nora 0
* -- Denotes Crew Chief
CREW #1
ALDS--Minnesota Twins and New York Yankees
Game One-- Umpire-- Previous DS Worked
HP Charlie Reliford 3 ('95, '97, '00)
1B Mark Wegner 1 ('03)
2B Brian Gorman 5 ('97,'99,'00,'01,'03)
3B Mike Everitt 1 ('01)
LF Jerry Crawford* 3 ('81,'00,'02)
RF Paul Nauert 0
CREW #2
NLDS--Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves
Game One-- Umpire-- Previous DS Worked
HP Tim McClelland 3 ('97,'00,'02)
1B Phil Cuzzi 1 ('03)
2B Wally Bell 3 ('98,'99,'03)
3B Fieldin Culbreth 1 ('02)
LF Joe Brinkman* 4 ('81,'95,'98,'99)
RF Tony Randazzo 0
CREW #3
ALDS--Boston Red Sox and Anaheim Angels
Game One-- Umpire-- Previous DS Worked
HP Larry Young 5 ('96,'99,'00,'01,'03)
1B Jerry Meals 1 ('99)
2B Brian Runge 0
3B Gary Cederstrom 2 ('00,'03)
LF Ed Montague* 4 ('81,'95,'00,'03)
RF Kerwin Danley 2 ('00,'01)
CREW #4
NLDS--Los Angeles Dodgers and St. Louis Cardinals
Game One-- Umpire-- Previous DS Worked
HP Dale Scott 5 ('95,'97,'98,'01,'03)
1B Greg Gibson 2 ('01,'03)
2B Chuck Meriwether 5 ('98,'99,'00, '01,'02)
3B Bruce Dreckman 0
LF Gerry Davis* 4 ('96,'99,'02,'03)
RF Brian O'Nora 0
* -- Denotes Crew Chief
NLCS & ALCS Umpire Assignments:
2004 American League Championship Series
Game One -- Umpire --Previous LCS Worked
HP Randy Marsh* 5 ('89,'92,'95,'00,'02)
1B Jeff Nelson 1 ('02)
2B John Hirschbeck 3 ('90,'97,'00)
3B Jim Joyce 1 ('97)
LF Jeff Kellogg 3 ('99,'01,'02)
RF Joe West 6 ('81,'86,'88,'93,'96, '03)
2004 National League Championship Series
Game One -- Umpire --Previous LCS Worked
HP Tim Welke* 4 ('91,'98,'01,'02)
1B Eric Cooper None
2B Gary Darling 1 ('92)
3B Mike Winters 1 ('97)
LF Angel Hernandez 3 ('00,'01,'03)
RF Ed Rapuano 3 ('99,'00,'02)
*Denotes Crew Chief
2004 American League Championship Series
Game One -- Umpire --Previous LCS Worked
HP Randy Marsh* 5 ('89,'92,'95,'00,'02)
1B Jeff Nelson 1 ('02)
2B John Hirschbeck 3 ('90,'97,'00)
3B Jim Joyce 1 ('97)
LF Jeff Kellogg 3 ('99,'01,'02)
RF Joe West 6 ('81,'86,'88,'93,'96, '03)
2004 National League Championship Series
Game One -- Umpire --Previous LCS Worked
HP Tim Welke* 4 ('91,'98,'01,'02)
1B Eric Cooper None
2B Gary Darling 1 ('92)
3B Mike Winters 1 ('97)
LF Angel Hernandez 3 ('00,'01,'03)
RF Ed Rapuano 3 ('99,'00,'02)
*Denotes Crew Chief
I had thought I posted this last week, but I guess I didn't. That's what happens when one is busy. Here are the umpires for the 2004 World Series.
Their starting game one positions are given, along with previous WS assignments in parentheses.
HP Ed Montague* (1986,'91,'97,2000)
1B Dale Scott (1998, 2001)
2B Brian Gorman (None)
3B Chuck Meriwether (None)
LF Gerry Davis (1996,'99)
RF Charlie Rehliford (2000)
* Denotes Crew Chief
Their starting game one positions are given, along with previous WS assignments in parentheses.
HP Ed Montague* (1986,'91,'97,2000)
1B Dale Scott (1998, 2001)
2B Brian Gorman (None)
3B Chuck Meriwether (None)
LF Gerry Davis (1996,'99)
RF Charlie Rehliford (2000)
* Denotes Crew Chief
QUOTE
The Umpire:
I had thought I posted this last week, but I guess I didn't. That's what happens when one is busy.
Gee, wonder what you could possibly be busy with? wink
I had thought I posted this last week, but I guess I didn't. That's what happens when one is busy.
QUOTE
scottie:
Gee, wonder what you could possibly be busy with? wink
Stuff, scottie, stuff. Besides, you should know better than to end your sentences with prepositions.Gee, wonder what you could possibly be busy with? wink
Nice try, though. wink
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