another view

[BigUmp56]

MLB does have an official policy in place for allowing access to their umpires after a game.
MLBUM:

XV. DEALING WITH PRESS AND MEDIA; INTERVIEWS; VCRs

Major League Baseball's policy regarding interviews and dealing with the press is specified in the Basic Agreement, Articles 9.E.1 and 9.E.2, which state as follows:

1. An umpire shall not speak with a member of the media regarding a controversial call, play or ejection in a game for a period of fifteen (15) minutes following the completion of the game. After the fifteen minute post-game cooling off period, a Crew Chief (or another crew member, with the consent of, and in the presence of, the Crew Chief) may on the day of the game discuss a rule interpretation, an unusual play, or a controversial call, play or ejection with a pool reporter. Otherwise, there shall be no public comment by umpires on matters governed by this Article.

9.E.1 unless and until public relations support has been sought and received pursuant to Article 9.E.2, below.

2. Should a controversial call, play or ejection, or other urgent dispute occur during a game, the Office of the Commissioner shall, on an on-call basis, promptly provide to the umpire and crew involved press and public relations advice and assistance in responding to media inquiries.

Prior to writing a report or speaking with the media after a game concerning a controversial incident, it is suggested that umpires review video footage of the situation and discuss the matter within the crew.

All clubs have been instructed to have functioning VCRs and tapes available in each umpire dressing room for review after every game. If there are any problems in this regard, the Umpiring Department should be contacted immediately. Tapes are provided for post-game review by the umpires and can be removed from the umpires' room in unique circumstances.


Tim.