Fireworks!

Jim Porter · #1 (**permalink**) Sun Jun 17, 2007, 11:48pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by TussAgee11

Regarding the balk, my response of "appeal what" was made more in a way of "c'mon coach you've got to be kidding".

Unless the participants know you well, there is no room for sarcasm. Be clear and succinct.

SanDiegoSteve · #2 (**permalink**) Mon Jun 18, 2007, 01:13am

well my approach today was something that SDS has suggested to me in a previous thread.

I believe I said that I would say, "Are you arguing balls and strikes?" I do not believe I said anything about, "Are you going to argue balls and strikes?"

I ask a direct question concerning his current behavior, not about what he is going to do in the near future.

"Are you arguing balls and strikes?" Answer: "Yes." Dump him.
"Are you arguing balls and strikes?" Answer: "No." Let him stay, and he really has nowhere to take the argument, as he has just said that he's not arguing. If he starts to argue again, dump him.

Jim Porter · #3 (**permalink**) Mon Jun 18, 2007, 01:42am

Quote:

Originally Posted by SanDiegoSteve

"Are you arguing balls and strikes?" Answer: "Yes." Dump him.
"Are you arguing balls and strikes?" Answer: "No." Let him stay, and he really has nowhere to take the argument, as he has just said that he's not arguing. If he starts to argue again, dump him.

Sorry Steve, but I disagree. In theory it sounds good, but asking him a question opens the door for all kinds of responses, putting you in an untenable position, and passing momentary control over to him. Don't ask questions -- make statements, issue dictates, show everyone that you are the authority, and always demonstrate through language, expression, and posture that you are in control.

Just to be clear, I don't mean to sound like I advocate all-out dictatorship on the diamond -- there is a way to be quietly and confidently in charge -- to be affable without yielding your authority -- to be compelling without being autocratic. Don't be a pushover, but don't be domineering either.

Cub42 · #4 (**permalink**) Mon Jun 18, 2007, 01:52am

As stated earlier, this level of ball is notorious for teams being coached by clueless parents. Here is some ideas on how to handle these kind of situations.

1) Balk-After you call this, if the coach needs an explanation, give him one. However, do not let him get the theatrics started by shouting from the dugout or across the field. This only tends to turn the focus on you and your partner, and not the play or the players. Have a one on one with him and tell him what the pitcher did, then let him know that there is no more discussion.

2) Arguing Balls and Strikes- Simply stated, there is no arguing balls and strikes. Do not ask him, or bait him. When he starts, shut it down immediately. Issue him a warning for this. Then be prepared to run him if he continues. Warnings are useless unless they are followed up on. Remember, Umpires do not eject managers or players, managers and players eject themselves.

3) If you heard him state he wanted to get tossed, make no mistake about it, he wanted you to hear this. I do not believe this is a case of rabbit ears. This I would think was a direct challenge to you and your partner. At this point, you have 2 choices. Ignore it and wait for a total s---house to erupt, or engage him and let him know right then and there that if he wants to go, he can go right now. He will not be allowed to make a mockery out of the game. This kind of behavior needs to be reported to your UIC, and the league president, in written form. Game Mgt is the most important skill an Umpire needs to possess in this level of ball