OK Carl I'll fess up.

[Jim Porter]

Throughout my entire career, I don't believe I have ever heard anyone require (or even recommend) that umpires should not carry a rulebook on the field. I don't doubt that it happens, just not here.

Instead, around here, when someone tells you not to carry a rulebook, what they really mean is that it shouldn't be sticking out of your back pocket for the world to see. That can get you into trouble. From coaches who will enter the field and ask you to look it up, to spectators and hecklers who aren't happy with your calls, that little book sticking out of your back pocket can be a load of troubles.

Work as a crew and ask the plate umpire to carry a book in his bag, as Garth suggests. Find some way to have it on the field without everyone being able to see it.

When something bizarre happens, there is no shame in looking it up. When something bizarre happens, there is shame in not having a book and getting your decision wrong.

Sincerely,
Jim Porter