This isn't a bullet, but it's an important piece of advice. Don't fall for that old line that the best umpire is the one nobody sees or remembers. That may — but I doubt it — have once been a good idea. In these contentious times, you cannot afford to be a shrinking violet. In two words: "Take charge!"
Now, I've drawn my pistol and the lead will begin to fly.
Before the game
- Accept every game your assignor offers. When the phone rings and he asks "Can you go?" say "Yes" and cancel all plans, even family outings. That's the way to move up in the umpiring world.
- Buy the best equipment you can't afford. I have an original West Vest by Douglas. The patent was still pending, and it cost around a hundred dollars in 1989. When I take a direct shot off the 20-year-old protector, everybody becomes immediately scared and solicitous: "You all right, Blue?" Yes.
- Keep your uniform, shoes, cap, and equipment in apple-pie order.
- Learn the rules: live ball/dead ball; fair/foul; awards; infield fly; out of the base line; appeals; balks; scoring a run.
Continued...
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