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Tom, I think the disconnect is that you feel the inspections are geared to find the cheaters. That’s not the only reason we do it. We also do it (and I feel this is the overarching reason) to prevent unsafe equipment from being used. If all we were concerned with was cheating, we’d have no reason to inspect batting helmets and catcher’s helmets.
Of course parents and coaches are responsible as well, but realistically, how often do they look at the gear. I seriously doubt Mom or Dad checks before each game. And the coaches have half a dozen other things they’re doing before a game. What do we do once we get to the field? I just don’t see it as a burden. But that’s just me. I’ve been doing it long enough that it’s second nature. My mindset is not to look for cheaters. It’s to prevent potential injuries.
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"Let's face it. Umpiring is not an easy or happy way to make a living. In the abuse they suffer, and the pay they get for it, you see an imbalance that can only be explained by their need to stay close to a game they can't resist." -- Bob Uecker
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