Do you talk to players - Joke with them

[johnSandlin]

Pete,

I handle this in a couple of different fashions. First, if I am the the Plate Umpire, then yes I make a point to talk to the hitters and both catchers throughout the game. For me, it helps to ligthen the mood at the plate, paint the picture that I am approachable if you have a question, and also it helps to develop the atmosphere for the game.

When I am the Base Umpire, I may talk with the pitcher if he has a question, or talk to the some of the infielders of there is a pause, or may just quickly talk with first baseman from time to time.

For the coaches, I try to be as open as I can possibly be with them in the communication department when it comes to question or concerns about that game, but I do not make a habit nor an agenda itme to talk to them at any great length. If you do, you heading down the road of disaster.

I always tell fellow officials this, when it comes down to talking to players and coaches-listen....read....react in that order, and then when you react use common sense.