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Once more, Bob will be addressed first-
Abigail Van Buren is dead and using "Dear Abby" seemed a little silly. I tried to make light of what was becoming a disheartening conversation. As for your dismissal of condescension on the Carl's part, what do "fag" "Bubba" and "romantic" mean to you? In the context used, they were trite attempts to lord his wordsmithing over the masses. It didn't work here; I actually smiled when I read them. I'm not here to argue with him, just add a counterpoint. Umpiring is not a perfect science. It is an art and each of us interprets this skill differently. I actually like what Carl does with this site. I just don't agree and am smart enough to be able to parry well. I would think that your skin would be thicker after all of those years on the field. Lighten up compadre, officiating is about constant adjustment and communication. Our passion is shared; I enjoy discussing baseball with capable officials. Carl is one of the most zealous I have encountered. He is also smart enough to recognize sarcasm as a tool of engagement.
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Carl,
I will attempt to keep this from becoming more personal thatn you have made it. In my first post to you, I stated my opinion and then agreed with your posit, A2D. I have never claimed to be the almighty baseball reference, I simply run contrary to you on this matter. You have accused me of ignoring some of your points and I asked about the lodged ball scenario. You have repeatedly sidestepped it.
I truly believe that you have a gift for helping umpires understand the game and have enough war stories to fill a library. I challenged your abilities when you mocked mine. (free hot dogs, anyone?) Your rules knowledge is exceptional and this forum provides a much needed resource for veteran and rookie alike. Your cavalier attitude is not becoming however. I know, some of your supporters are gnashing their teeth and claiming that my replies are tantamount to heresy. Why is that? We've seen movements to change umpiring styles. Professional, collegiate and high school baseball have all taken steps to promote proper officiating. In your fifty years behind the mask, you've seen changes that shook your core. These recent occurences are just another evolution in umpire behavior. At our level, it is simply unacceptable to knowingly ignore the proper call. We umpire to the talent, true enough. But, not allowing for a terrific play or a poor decision on a player's part is not acceptable behavior on most levels above coach pitch. When the ball beats a runner by five steps, but the fielder lazily puts a tag down on top of the helmet, why would you not reward the adjustment and slide of a runner who fooled the fielder?
You dismissed Ventura's homerun as well. He was mobbed by his teammates and prevented from scoring. He did not complete the requirement for being credited with a homerun. In your missed plate scenario, the umpire saw the mistake and ignored it for appearance sake. You ask, what harm can come from it? How about teaching players how to play the game properly? If that's not good enough, then I suggest that it will serve as a wake up call to aspiring umpires. The rules matter - this is not a judgement call. You said that he missed the bag, that is a rule violation. It is not a home run if he misses first, is it?
Whether you want to believe it or not, I respect what you do and how you've celebrated this amazing game all of these years. I just find it funny that articulate people can demean and harangue with impunity. Your ability with our language affords you some leverage over those less skilled. Why is it that when we disagree you feel compelled to mock and trivialize with flowery prose? I can appreciate some of the humor but I don't understand why a General would cuss like a Private, albeit with more style.
The umpiring world is changing radically. I suggest that some of the accepted calls of the past are archaic. Indeed, you may have an assignor, evaluator or league that tolerates or expects such behavior. If that is what you need to do to survive, then I support your calls. Enough name calling though, we both know it will serve little purpose other than the titillation of our egos. Lord knows neither of us need that. A2D?
By the way, edit your last post.
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