Inside the fence

[jicecone]

I couldn't agree more Peter.

Ignoring comments inside the fence is one thing, having things thrown at you or being confronted outside of the fence is totaly different. Nor should an official be so oblivious of his surroundings that he does not take note of potential dangers when leaving the field. Main reason, ALL officials should leave as a crew.

There are exceptions though, but good officials make sure someone is taking care of these matters, before the game is completed. It is too late afterwards.

I once needed a police escort from a game because I called out a home run hitter on appeal, that missed third base BIG TIME. I made sure they were there before we called the final out.

Be professional in dealing with the verbal chatter, but have enough sense to know when a line shall be drawn, BY YOU.