What makes a great umpire?

What I like

I like umpires who are personable but yet in control of the game. I have seen a few (not many) that try so hard to establish their authority that they seem unapproachable. Of course they say the best guys behind the plate go almost unnoticed during the game. Other than Stretch (had to say that), I have really enjoyed Mr. Moody (not sure how to spell his first name) calling games recently. This guy is as funny as they come but he calls a great game on the dish and in the field. He makes quick decisions and is in control of the game. Seems like the kind of guy you would enjoy just sitting around and talking baseball with.

 

So you owe money to Stretch, too, huh?


























just kidding

 

Payment

Yes, he has me on a payment plan.......JK!

 

A good friend to baseball

Ponce Moody out of Raleigh, a super nice guy.

 

I was going to say "free" but "volunteer" sounds so much better.....

 

Just kidding........

 

1 more thing

I appreciate an Umpire that will ask for help on a call he may have not been in the best position to call. Sometimes it's impossible to be everywhere and they get caught with a poor angle or even blocked view. Having an occasional (and I mean not often, but when called for) conference to get the call right is a real plus in my eye along with the points Braves already mentioned.

 

Punch, I couldn't agree more. The best umpires are always noticed for the way they control and administer the game.....their arrival on the field, the home plate meeting, the call to play, flow of the game, coach conferences, tough calls, their position to make the call, etc. I attend so many games that I have now found it to be an interesting side game to observe the umpire when he is not central to the play....watching the plate umpire doing his routine when the field umpire has the call. Then you can see who is proud of their craft vs. those who have less invested in their effort.

 

I had the chance to watch

PunchedOut do his job over the weekend at South Meck and I have to say that I was very impressed with the entire crew. First of all, these guys love the game as much as the players, coaches, and fans. The tempo of the game was square on and I really didn't see anyone argue a call. And when you got rung up on a called strike you felt good because it was done with style. LOL
From what I could see, these guys were the best of the best that I had seen in a lot of years. My son even thought the same thing. Thats just a few of many things that makes a huge difference in my mind. Love of the game over love of money.
Glad to know I wasn't anywhere around Mr. KZone. That kind of ruins a game for me to hear parents take it out on the umpire and their kid. Sometimes in the same breathe. Just give me some seeds, a cold drink, and some music between innings. It's all good at the dish.

 

Thanks

The music was a nice break between innings. I'll introduce myself the next time and thanks again.