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Several years ago in an Independant Pro game, former Cub Chico Walker was the head coach in a game in which I was working the plate. We had one of those pitches that rode up and in and hit the bat....or the hand. I called "dead ball" and ruled it a foul ball. The batter did not argue, or even disagree, but here comes Chico. After ultimately REFUSING to let go of the "discussion", he was warned and ejected. I immediately turned away from him and my partner began the "let's go, Chico" process. Chico proceeded to get into it with my partner, who was glad to oblige.
After asking the assistant coach to "assist" (with no results), I walked up to my partner and said "Let's go, Louie", and off we went past the first base dugout down to the umpire room outside the right field foul pole, leaving Chico stewing at home plate. Louie said "This is great - have you ever done this before?". I said no, but it seems appropriate. As we walked by the first base coach he asked "Will you be back?", and we said yes, as soon as Chico leaves. The home team GM showed up at the lockerroom and asked if we forfeited the game, and we said no, we were just waiting for the Chico show to end and then we'd finish up the game.
Once all the reports were in after the whole incident was over with, Chico was fired the next day. Seemed appropriate.
That's the only time I've ever left the field, and it was done as a team with my approving partner. Gotta love this game!
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