Important lessons learned....and more questions asked

[PeteBooth]

[QUOTE]

Originally Posted by mattmets

Saturday I had a Sr. Babe Ruth (16-18) game, working by myself. So the game is suspended, continued tonight, once again I have it alone (don't ask why).

Here's your answer as to why you were working alone

He goes off that I can't run him if he doesn't curse....anyway, he's arguing, and while he's arguing he bumps me- not sure if it's intentional, but doesn't matter.

People for the most part do not change behaviors. Other umpires were probably sick of this guy.

This game is played on a field with no lines drawn past first base (this will be important)

The best you can do is have a "land mark' for yourself ie a tree, fence etc. You do the best you can

Next batter lofts a fly ball down the right field line. So in my head, here's what I'm keeping track of- Fair/foul, catch/no catch, proper tags, runners touching bases, potential time play, not getting hit with a throw, and keeping my *** out of trouble.

When working solo here's the order

1. Call the Pitch
2. Fair / Foul
3. catch / No catch
4. Get into the "working area"

Do not worry about runners touching bases because it's virtually impossible when working solo. Some things have to "give' and that's one of the areas.

I tell his assistants he was ejected for making contact with me, not for arguing. Stupidly, I ask who's now in charge and if he wants to discuss it.

You do not need to explain yourself to the assistant. Also, no need to explain your call to the assistant unless when he "takes over" he asks you. Do not "volunteer" anything.

Did you write up a report and send the report to the President of this league and your assignor about the bumping incident? IMO this should not be taken lightly.

Side Note: Be careful about accepting Rec league assignments where there is virtually no control and the Presidents or Boards are "soft". That's probably why you were working this game SOLO in the first place.

Pete Booth