A partner who has poor mechanics doesn't communicate on the field such as rotations, coverage etc. and doesn't where a proper uniform.


I work with all kinds of umpires, so the Bad mechanics etc. doesn't bother me. I just want my partner to be consistent so that I in tune know what I have to do. i worked with plate guys who simply stayed behind the dish, didn't give help at third etc. Again as long as they were consistent then i knew what I had to do.

However, my pet peeve would be with the uniform part. It's one thing to have poor mechanics etc. it's quite another not to have the proper uniform. That's where I would say something.

If you are not wearing the proper uniform you do not belong on the field.

Pete Booth

It is called a "uniform" for a reason!

Sort of my sentiments too.

I have had guys come back to me much later and thank me, even though at the time they hated my guts for leveling with them.

If you don't feel comfortable busting a guys chops, then don't. For ME, it is helpful to hear even about the little things I do wrong, or what my partner doesn't like. I may not agree with him now, but down the road, I might "get it".

I wish more guys would have leveled with me early in my umping career.

With newer umpires, I give a LOT of details about what I seen them doing that was wrong. With older guys that should know better, I hold back a bit. Generally, in their 5-6th year, they will show signs of wanting to go to the next level. With those that do, I try to help as much as I can. If the don't seem to want to get better, I won't give them anything, except maybe a ration of crap if they really blew some plays. :)

After games with a new guy, I usually just ask, "do you want some feedback?" Sometimes they do, sometimes they don't. I respond accordingly.

Working With a Bad Partner
 

In the original comment, it was implied that the 'bad partner' did not miss any calls or cause the other umpire to miss any. That should be factored in before deciding what one does about his other failings and flaws. I assume the discussion is about amateur work. In the past in professional ball, mechanics and mannerisms have been subordinate considerations to getting the calls right. Alas, that is changing, too.