[umpduck11]

Over the past few seasons, I have witnessed what could only be called the slow decline of a few of our most veteran umpires. Guys who have led our assc. and are well-respected within our association, and outside of it. I have had some of our best younger guys notice it, too, and mention it to me. I have made one of them promise to be upfront with me when and if that day comes for me, and I have assured him I will go to a full-time mentoring role at that point.