Are umpire associations to blame

[archangel]

OP Title: Are umpire associations to blame?

In a nutshell, NO!
Both examples you spoke of would've happened whether or not all assoc stood together prior to them happening....
I'm sure you started this thread for conversation purposes only, but it seems like society always has to "blame" everyone/everthing possible when something goes wrong...i.e. passerby injured by drunk driver = sue the driver, bar, whiskey maker, drinkers friends, car company, and on and on....

I'm frankly tired of having to change how I live/work due to the actions of a very small minority. How many thousands of ball players are there vs the miniscule % that cross the line we are discussing? Penalize/Deal with those responsible!

In a capitalistic society, you are dreaming to think a league wouldnt find an assoc to use......