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I watched parts of both the MI vs TX and MI vs NJ games, with most of my time watching (and critiquing) the umpires. The call at 2B was terrible; obvious obstruction, but Blue was in the wrong position.
On a tag play at 3B Blue was in foul territory, 2B to 3B line extended. No way could he see when the tag was applied.
On two plays at home F2 did a MLB block of home plate; I would have called obstruction even in the days of "about to receive." But they did not.
I have noticed this year, and in years past that the PU generally looks excellent (on TV). This makes sense from my personal observations from attending the Big League World Series in Kalamazoo the last few years. To me it appears that the majority of umpires are being honored for their many years of service. Which is consistent with Little League’s philosophy of volunteerism and equal participation.
However, it seems that a highly qualified umpire is appointed to the UIC position. This has been very evident in Kalamazoo; as it should be, for Big League is a high level of play. These girls are high school stars, all-state or all-something; play on high level travel teams, and many are college bound. So at least they get someone behind the plate that is capable of calling balls and strikes at that level.
BTW – anyone here had the opportunity to be on national television to be evaluated by thousands of recliner umpires?
WMB
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