n the 1930’s, the inside chest protector made its first appearance in baseball. By the ‘60s all NL umpires were required to use the new protector. The AL followed suit in the ‘70s after joining the NL umpires in forming a single union. What followed was the ability, and later the practice, of the umpire to position himself in what became known as the “slot,” that very valuable piece of real estate between the catcher and the batter, normally centered on the inside corner of the plate.

Author’s note: One exception to the inside protector requirement was made. Jocko Conlan, a Hall of Fame umpire who had a particular vulnerability to being hit in the throat, received a “grandfather” exemption and was allowed to continue to use the raft protector.

Editor’s note: I believe any AL umpire who wished to continue with the outside protector was permitted to do so. Durwood Merrill used it for his career; I believe he was the last holdout.

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