FED Plate Conference

[Robert E. Harrison]

We are required to ask the questions and work with media requests that we feel are reasonable. I still have them draw a media box for cameramen if they want to be on the field.

[Simply The Best]

Originally Posted by Robert E. Harrison

We are required to ask the questions and work with media requests that we feel are reasonable. I still have them draw a media box for cameramen if they want to be on the field.

Is the media box in or out of play?

[BSUmp16]

Originally Posted by Simply The Best

Association mandated? Because if not, it is a waste of time asking these questions.Gold has escalated in value.

Mandated by Rule and common sense.

2-10-2: "Umpires shall also ask the head coaches of the two opposing teams if their players are legally and properly equipped."

Also, I can tell you that if anyone gets hurt in a game and as a result a lawsuit is filed, this will be one of the questions asked of you - "Did you inquire of the coaches, as the rules require you do, and if so, what did they respond." If you can't answer that question properly, you may have just added your name to the list of defendants.

[MikeStrybel]

You bring up a good point, the head coach must be made available and it is good practice to receive their confirmation of proper equipment and sportsmanship. Maybe things have changed while I was out of the country for the past few years but I recall great debate on the site about umpire liability. I believe most felt it was urban legend for baseball umpires to be found liable for negligence while working a game. If that opinion has changed I would love to read more. Anyone know of a baseball umpire who was successfully sued for being negligent during a game?

Thanks and have a great season.

[Simply The Best]

Originally Posted by Simply The Best
Association mandated? Because if not, it is a waste of time asking these questions. It is all about liability since pre game checks are a complete and total ruse.

Originally Posted by BSUmp16

Mandated by Rule and common sense.

2-10-2: "Umpires shall also ask the head coaches of the two opposing teams if their players are legally and properly equipped."

Also, I can tell you that if anyone gets hurt in a game and as a result a lawsuit is filed, this will be one of the questions asked of you - "Did you inquire of the coaches, as the rules require you do, and if so, what did they respond." If you can't answer that question properly, you may have just added your name to the list of defendants.

We agree, the asking of coaches if their players are properly equipped blah blah is all about liability and nothing about enforcing safety. Ever see a coach cup check a catcher? Have you cup checked a catcher? Same with checking bats. Total BS, the bats they show, are they the bats they use?

Umpires have been burdened with these ridiculous tasks because they are insured for liability (payable money in lawsuits) and coaches, parents and players refuse to adhere to the most common of safety and sportsmanship practices.