Laid Back Ejection Signal

[FredFan7]

I've seen a growing trend this year that MLB umpires use a casual wave/point to the dugout when ejecting a manager or player. This is happening when while the player, coach, or manager is screaming at them.

Are umpires doing this because they refuse to be part of the manager's show? Or is it sending a message that "you are not worth the time or effort for me to give you the big heave-ho."

Have/will any of you try this mechanic the next time you have to take out the trash?

[L.A. Umpire Guy]

I have had about half of the ejections that I should or could have. My first two ever were malicious contact ejections, in which you just inform them that they're gone. I prefer to keep good people in a game rather than punish them for an uncharacteristic outburst or personal insult. I do it to preserve order or to rid a contest of a bad person, which is usually an adult coach or adult player (J.C. or 18-over wood batt leagues). My coach and adult player ejections result in an instinctive wave and it seems that it's always been a simple sweeping wave of the left hand with my mask in it. So a little wave of the mask has become the thumb. It's a lot like "It's time to go."

I liked a recent ejection of Joe Maddon (perhaps it's the one you're referring to), in which the veteran umpire listened patiently to what Maddon was hollering, and then when he said something magical, the umpire just pointed like you described, and then the conversation continued for a while longer. No agitation; no theatrics, it was very cool.

Some ejections I give the big heave ho, usually, when it is a coach arguing balls/strikes at the end of the bench.

But if they are out there yelling at me, a casual one does the trick.

[Rcichon]

If said rat is loud and verbally challenging, he will warrant an ej that is visibly and audibly evident to everyone watching.

All others are quiet and not too visibly noticeable.

[edhern]

When the coach or manager is constantly yapping and thinks he is smart, the quick backhanded wave goodbye seems appropriate. A straight on argument and a "you're gone" will do.

[JRutledge]

I have noticed the very same thing.

Peace