[BestUmp]

Originally Posted by MikeStrybel

I have a tough time understanding umpires who pick and choose which rules they will enforce. Around here, we are rated by partners and coaches for the job we do on the field. Sure, I will probably receive a worse rating for having coaches stay inside the dugout (when not in a coaching box), enforcing the batter's box and jewelry rules, making sure bullpen catchers wear helmets and ignoring certain balks. I have been told as much - "Blue, no one calls that stuff around here." I bet they will when the playoffs roll around. I'm fairly certain that the HC won't want to see his scholarship bound catcher dumped for wearing jewelry during a late round playoff contest.

This story has been related prior. Last season, first round off playoffs: my partner ejects the starting catcher for wearing a LiveStrong type bracelet. He insisted that he warned him and 3-3-1d states that a warning shall be issued to the HC of the offending team and the next player dumped. That is pretty cut and dry. The responsibility for ensuring that his players are properly equipped is entirely the HC's. Warn, record and play. If another infraction occurs, sometimes you just have to umpire. It may appear trivial but most rules are. They only apply to those who seek ways around them.

Mike, well spoken!

We are arbiters not rule makers unless, of course, we are on the Rules Making Committee.