If an entire team is starting to get mouthy, I will often go to the coach or captain (if no coach is present) between innings and say, "coach, I understand that we're in a heck of a game here, and I know that things are pretty hot. However, some players are getting a bit too hot. If I keep hearing what I'm hearing, someone is going to have to sit out. It's not what I want, it's not what you want, and I'm all for good competition. However, things are getting a bit too hot, so let's cool it, okay?"
Often, the coach will acknowledge it and get his/her players to cool it a bit. If the coach argues with you, then you've given him all the "heads up" he's gonna get.
We walk a fine line between letting a player blow off steam and letting a player blast us with venom. Good game management means knowing when that line is being pushed, and when to address it. The earlier you address it, the less likely it is to arrive to this kind of a situation. None of us wants to be the bad guy, nor do we want to be considered "the ump that cost us the game." But it's still our job to uphold the integrity of the game and, by proxy, the integrity of our positions. Identify those warning signs, address them respectfully, and things will go smoother.
Other opinions on how to handle a hot game? Everyone has their own style...
