new to baseball

[gordon30307]

Originally posted by Junker
Hey all! Some of you that are on the basketball forum will recognize my name. I've been doing basketball for about 6 years and this summer I'm going to pick up baseball. Baketball is my first love (to play and officiate) but I'm a teacher and working afternoon, lower level double headers looks like a fun summer job. Also it will allow me to be on the golf course in the mornings. Just a couple of questions heading into the season. First of all, I know mechanics and positioning are important so I at least look like I know what I'm doing. What should I really concentrate on next (rules that I will be faced with daily and such)? Secondly, I was sort of thinking of getting softball at the same time, but I wasn't sure if I shouldn't get just one this year until I become more familiar with the rules. Is that a good idea, or are they close enough I should just go for both. I played baseball 15 years ago, but I haven't been more than a casual fan since. Thanks for your thoughts.

1. Join a local umpire association. Your timing is perfect. right about now they will be having rules meetings and clinics for the vets. and rookies.

2 get good equipment. Don't go cheap. The ball has a way of finding vulnerable spots. Be sure to get plate shoes. Steal towed shoes don't provide enough protection.

3. Get licensed for high school. They usually have a web site that provides useful info. You'll get a rule book and a case book. Study the case book it has all the goofy plays that can happen on the field.