During the pregame, I always introduce myself to the umpires by name. If the umpires choose to offer theirs (sometimes they do, sometimes they don't), I do my best to remember them.
When I have occasion to address the umpires during the game, I will use their name if they offered it; otherwise I will use "Blue" (even if they're wearing a RED shirt) or "Ump".
Sometimes the umpires will address me by name, but it's usually "Coach". Either way is fine by me.
To me, using the person's name tends to set a more "gentlemanly" tone to any discussion we might have.
JM
|