So, Tim C

[pdxblue]

I did NOT post from a "look at me" position. I posted simply to clarify to Tim, who seemed to think he knows why I crossed the picket line, exactly why I did.

Also, if you go back and read very carefully, you will find NOWHERE that I made ANY claims about my umpiring skills. I simply stated that I wanted to see if I was "good enough", and might have made it in pro ball had I pursued that path. That is ALL I said. No claims about my quality. Only that I saw this as an opportunity to see where I am at in the realm of things.

Some of you guys can't seem to get a handle on that, and think that I am the type that has to go around "bragging" or what not. Indeed, I took some liberty and appeared to "brag" after the vicious, and unwarrented attacks by a few. What is funny is that NONE of you, except Tim C know me, and have absolutely no clue what you are talking about when you start discussing my attitude!

I can tell you this. The pdxbeavers crap is simply that, crap. Some of the situation described are totally inaccurate to what really happened out there. Anybody using a fans blog as a accurate meter as to how the crew did is just plain ignorant and silly!

What is amazing is not ONCE has anybody asked me what I have thought about the quality of the officiating of the games I have done. Everybody assumes that I somehow think everything has been perfect and nobody needs to improve. Let me tell you something, I did not get to the level or umpiring where I would be considered for being a "replacement" ump at the Triple A level because I am unrealistic about the job I do, or the job my partners do! I know my strengths and weaknesses! I have sat through many post game reviews from ex pro umpires and have had the obvious to the most subtle things they felt I am doing wrong pointed out to me.

I am glad I am doing what I am doing. It has been a tremendous challenge, and will only make me a MUCH better umpire. For your information, I feel I have done an adequate job out there!