[AtlUmpSteve]

This board has had numerous threads in the past piling on the handful of umpires that still choose not to wear a chest protector.

Personally, I look at it as a matter of personal choice, just like the college player not using a faceguard on the batting helmet, the pitcher not wearing a gameface, and those riding in cars without wearing a seat belt. Certainly there is a probable set of odds that each might be injured by their choice, but it is their choice to make.

As a UIC/assignor/evaluator, I am only concerned with the performance of that umpire. If he stands in, stays still when necessary, and has a solid zone without being ball shy, then it isn't my issue. If he jumps while the ball may still be a strike, then I will address his equipment as necessary. (Yes, while the ball may be a strike; I see no reason to be a backstop for the rec catcher on bounding balls.)