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Originally posted by Panda Bear
I don't disagree with Tom "Dakota"'s sentiments. To clarify my observations, I agree with using the "prescribed" equipment. What I was addressing is the ongoing debate here and within the industry about how specific or general the "prescription" should be.
For example, there was an observation recently about using what was either a black or navy bag with gray slacks. That must have been approved in the case at hand, or umpires working a game on national TV wouldn't have been so attired. I agree, old vinyl bags should be gone. But, IMO, I see no problem with some variety in choice of uniforms and equipment, color and style.
I also differentiate the elements of mechanics related to being in position to see the elements to correctly make a call, and the "mechanics" of communicating the call. It is important that all concerned know what the call was. If that isn't accomplished, nothing else matters. OTOH, if it is accomplished, what added value does a given motion have vs. another?
I realize many of us have a military background that stresses the elimination of any trace of individuality.
OTOH, attracting new, upwardly mobile types into our line of work is important in many localities. In the society we live in, many of the people we need to attract as new participants, as well as spectators (read supporters), value individuality, freedom of choice, and, yes, colorfulness. If all the diamond sports are to remain viable, we need to appeal to new blood. Like it or not, we are competing with every other diversion out there whenever we step onto the field.
I am by no means proposing WWE Wrestling as our marketing model, but I am suggesting making sure we "appeal" to diverse "markets".
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That's correct, just like allowing calculaters in schools at an early grade. Now you have college graduates who cannot perform simple arithmatic with a pencil and paper.
Anyone who has been to an ASA clinic has heard that the first part of selling oneself as a good umpire is to look like a good umpire. Nothing looks worse then a crew diverse in uniform. That word alone, "uniform", should offer an indication as to the purpose of dressing alike. I watch some minor-league ball around here and it is rare the umpires are in identical uniforms. One guy wears shoes with the white Nike swoosh and the other wears black. One may be wearing an old style plate coat while the other wears a "Ike" style jacket on the bases. As often as I watch, there is nothing ever convincing me they can act as a unit.
Look the part, then act the part. This is where the similar mechanics come into place. Anyone ever hear, "If you deviate, communicate"? Of course, you have and that also is part of uniformity among the crew. The best crew is that which act as a single unit regardless of how many umpires are on the field.
I'm not suggesting an umpire be robotic, but "individualism" among a crew may lead to a lack of cohesiveness which will be noticed on the field. Umpires are not being paid to look good or cool on the field and, no, a ball bag does not affect a call, but it may very well affect the manner in which it is accepted by the teams.