Fielder loses possession; Ball out of play

[Dave Hensley]

Originally posted by Lapopez

I don't see the correlation between not wanting to make my fellow umpires feel uncomfortable and making a "tough" (?) call during a game.

Let's review. Some quotes from your posts in this thread:

...I am always afraid to disagree with them.

I rarely contribute to this kind of forum (discussion boards) because I am afraid of the flame wars here.

I frankly could use some advice on how to approach the issue of how to disagree in a way that doesn't offend sensitive, veteran umpires who are very set in their ways.

I said in a very humble tone ...

I wouldn't know how to verbally ask your question in a way that doesn't put the other guy on the defensive.

Out with the guys I feel like I am immediately putting them on the defensive when I bring out the rule book.

Sorry to be blunt, but you come across as very wishy-washy. You're so afraid of conflict that it does seem rather incongruous that you would be a baseball umpire. I suspect the reaction I have had to your posts in this thread is similar to Tee's, prompting him to ask if you can make a tough, controversial call in a game situation.

It's a fair observation.