Sooooooo....today was the first day...

[WhatWuzThatBlue]

Originally Posted by BenedictArnold

I am so tired of this. But at least it makes sense. I do know what kind of hostility you carry. You are no different than any other student at umpire school that wanted a job, didn't get one, and felt as though you got screwed. Well guess what, you weren't good enough then and you aren't now. What a shock that you would scab...it all makes sense now. You are nothing but a bitter a**hole at those MiLB instructors for not sending you. Looks like they got this one right...you are pathetic SCUMP. At least those instructors announce their name publicly and tell you that you aren't good enough. You can't even do the same. Keep hiding in the shadows and throw those stones at the AMLU house. You are a joke!

BTW...independent ball is something to be proud of, but it is not professional baseball. Don't fool yourself and tell the truth when you tell people what levels you have worked. Actually, you are only trying to convince yourself that you are good enough. Job well done...you can rest assured that in your own mind you are still the best. Now go back and read your umpire school evaluation again and come back to reality.

One last comment before my eyelids rule the night.

While it is true that SCUMP has some hostile feelings towards the striking umpires, it is your reply that sounds the most bitter and antagonistic. I suggest decaf.

I was one of the fortunate few that paid my money, sweated and worked, listened and performed well enough to be encouraged to take the shot. I subjected myself to the MiLB grind and count those memories among my best and worst. I am very well versed at the role we played and the lifestyle. I believe that I am more than qualified to comment of the AMLU and the issues MiLB umpires face. All along, I have empathized with the individual umpire and taken shots at the brass. Those that haven't walked in my shoes can certainly read and hear what is being said. They can also form an opinion on an internet discussion board.

You said that independent Minor League baseball is not professional baseball. Why is that? Are you saying because they aren't formally affiliated with Major League baseball they don't count? Hmmm - methinks that you sound like someone on a pedestal, not a soapbox. Many current and former MLB players herald from the independent leagues across the US, Mexico and Canada. The umpiring is pretty solid and I enjoyed more than a few easons with some great clubs. As far as I recall, the pay was good, the players received contracts and remuneration. The parks were nice, usually pretty well filled and the local radio stations carried the games. What exactly is your definition of professional baseball?