Annual throat guard topic

[Klokard]

Doing the dish will always pose some possibility of injury. Short of looking like a Michelin man I don't think it's possible to be entirely protected. I have invested well in my gear and use proper mechanics to avoid injury. However, I still get bumps and bruises along the way. I have been doing this since '78 and have yet to take a bad one off the throat. I choose not to wear the dangling throat guard. Freak accidents will happen. Should the MLB catchers and umpires be required to wear one? Absolutely NOT. There are already enough rules and regs.

[Emperor Ump]

About 2 years ago while wearing a dangling throat guard I took a foul which hit the protector sending it back into my throat which was probably the worst pain I have been in as an umpire. It took me at least 5 min to get back up to the plate. The home teams trainer actually suggested I not continue and go to the ER, I did not. I cannot imagine how bad it would have hurt had I not worn the protector. Probably like Garth's situation if not worse. I definitely recommend using one.

That being said I think they are like motorcycle helmets, seatbelts, etc. It should remain a personal choice which is available to you if you should feel the need, not mandated.