[senior]

I believe it depends on the level of experience of the Umpire. Newbies are reluctant, free-riders don't want to cause anyone to question them and prolong the game, and the wussies are afraid of a potential challenge.

Ironically, the game I just finished had two ejections, both by me. Tight game, unbeaten (so far) team down by two, and opponent has runner on second with two outs. Single to center, #8 has excellent arm, I'm in "C", and anticipate a throw home, but I'm watching runner to be sure of a touch at third, when lo and behold the third baseman decides to assume a fielding position ON THE BAG, for a non-existant throw. The runner goes around him the long way, avoiding contact, but I have OBSTRUCTION, and on the ensuing play at the plate - tagged out - naturally nobody is watching my arm signal or listening to anything I'm yelling, until the defense starts clearing the field, when I make my surprise announcement, and unhappiness prevails.

The third baseman's father, (a coach in the dugout) is the first to go when he comes up with some foul language while berating me. An inning passes, things seem to be settling down, and wait a minute - what's this? One of the Parents (not a coach but a spectator) has joined the huddle (prayer meeting) the losing team is having, and I hear "O.K. boys, tighten up, because it's 11 against 9).
Needless to say, he was the second one to go.

Newbies would not make the call because they would miss the obstruction, and be following the ball instead.
Free-riders would zip it because it would prolong the game.
Wusses would be afraid of the inevitable flack which they wouldn't want to deal with. However, this old duffer called it because I saw it, and couldn't live with myself if I let it slide. I would rather listen to the flack than to lay down, and not make the call.

If the two guys I tossed ever get serious about their rules knowledge, we'll get them some volunteer applications and perhaps get two new Umpires out of this situation.



Senior