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When I was in pro school I was told that the average MiLB umpire spends 7 years woing it before he gives up or is cut from the roster. That doesn't sound like a career to me. I have a few friends still actively pursuing the dream and I've talked with them about this matter. I've been there so they know I understand the harsh truths of their lives. They responded no differently than the teacher, cop or transport worker who demands better wages, benefits and respect. I feel bad that they don't get more but the reality is that they are expendable and will receive only a token increase from MLB.
If you don't believe me, check for yourself. How many MiLB umpires are still in the game after seven years? Ten?
It is not any more of a career than any other apprentice. You are doing the drudgery in order to prove your worth. Maybe you get noticed and maybe you get sent home with a lot of neat stories.
As yourself this; when the MLB umpires went on strike, did America care? Did those games count? When they came back, were they a stronger union or was their position compromised severely?
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"You can tell whether a man is clever by his answers.
You can tell whether a man is wise by his questions.
~Naguib Mahfouz
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