[Cub42]

As stated earlier, this level of ball is notorious for teams being coached by clueless parents. Here is some ideas on how to handle these kind of situations.

1) Balk-After you call this, if the coach needs an explanation, give him one. However, do not let him get the theatrics started by shouting from the dugout or across the field. This only tends to turn the focus on you and your partner, and not the play or the players. Have a one on one with him and tell him what the pitcher did, then let him know that there is no more discussion.

2) Arguing Balls and Strikes- Simply stated, there is no arguing balls and strikes. Do not ask him, or bait him. When he starts, shut it down immediately. Issue him a warning for this. Then be prepared to run him if he continues. Warnings are useless unless they are followed up on. Remember, Umpires do not eject managers or players, managers and players eject themselves.

3) If you heard him state he wanted to get tossed, make no mistake about it, he wanted you to hear this. I do not believe this is a case of rabbit ears. This I would think was a direct challenge to you and your partner. At this point, you have 2 choices. Ignore it and wait for a total s---house to erupt, or engage him and let him know right then and there that if he wants to go, he can go right now. He will not be allowed to make a mockery out of the game. This kind of behavior needs to be reported to your UIC, and the league president, in written form. Game Mgt is the most important skill an Umpire needs to possess in this level of ball