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Originally Posted by GarthB
Aren't these six inning games? If so, that would make eight of them excessive in length.
What does that have to do with the length of games? Are they showing the kids sleeping?
I see. So there's no room for improvement. Just take it or leave it? Maybe that should be LL's motto.
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Excessive? Take out the commercials and no - not excessive. Heck, they won't even let the defense take the field between innings until TV says it's ready.
I guess LL should hire off-duty or retired MLB umpires to umpire an amateur game between 12-year-old (league age) kids that are under the direction of volunteer coaching staffs composed of Dads who were willing to give their time. We can get (I know he's gone) Eric Gregg and his truck-sized strike zone to handle the plate, Rich Garcia (Maier-man) to call fan interference, and Don Denkinger to make the calls at first. We can get the recent crew from Boston to make HR vs. Double calls. Heaven knows those pros never make mistakes like those Bozo LL umpires. How about Ron Luciano (also gone) and his theatric calls, or Dutch Rennert and his strike call. Those were certainly not worthy of a professional ump - OH WAIT - they were professional umpires. If we can't get the pros, maybe we can get the guys that called this year's NCAA CWS. Those opposite-batter's-box strikes were certainly interesting - even Tee commented on them.
I have a challenge for you Garth. Spend the 10 days at Williamsport for the series. Interview anyone you please about the whole event. Wander around and observe and talk to the players, coaches, families, umpires, the volunteers staffing the event, and the just plain fans that come for the event. Then come back here and write about the experience. Heck, meet me there for one of the days and I'll make a contribution to your expenses before I even know how you're reacting. Or not. I wouldn't want anyone to think I'm trying to buy you off.
Little League isn't professional baseball. It isn't college or high school baseball. It isn't middle school baseball. It isn't meant to be. Enjoy it for what it is - kids playing a game.