First games of the year yesterday...

TwoBits · #1 (**permalink**) Mon Apr 14, 2003, 10:13am

...and not too bad. Triple Crown tournament using FED rules, 14 year olds. I don't really care for doing TC, but it was an available tournament, and I was eager to work. First game a 10 run blowout, but done in an hour 15. Strike zone a bit shaky on the corners, but got better by the third inning. Next two games were great! Well played games, good fielding, batters swinging, pitchers hitting the zone, everything clicking. Championship game was 12-7, not the greatest in the world, but really couldn't complain.

Only bad thing of the day was the fan who insisted that the hands were part of the bat when a batter was hit there on a pitch. He actually told be about his good friend something-or-other who was the head of the MLB umpire's union. I wish I had something to say back to him, but I just nodded and walked away. Dangit!

Lastly, how about the weather!? 80 degrees in the midwest in April! I have either coached or umpired in a tournament in mid-April every year for the last 10 years, and it has always been cold, windy and rainy.

Can't wait until the next tournament!

BobH · #2 (**permalink**) Thu Apr 17, 2003, 05:08pm

Yep, had my first LL game last Thurs. Ended in a 7 to 7 tie after 6 as it was getting dark--so nobody was mad at me.

Wasn't that warm though which is OK cuz the inside chest protector gets hot. I still remember the final playoff game I worked last year in 102 degrees. Ugh

Only one argument with a coach. After his 1st baseman didn't catch a not quite routine pop up he thought I should call infield fly after-the-fact and give him a free out. Some of the kids at the snack bar after the game said I had a good strike zone. That's always good to hear especially after the first game of the season.

Jay R · #3 (**permalink**) Fri Apr 18, 2003, 06:25am

Lucky guys!

It was about 20 degrees yesterday morning with the windchill. Suppose to warm over the next few days here in Atlantic Canada. Our baseball season usually starts in mid-May.

After a couple of seasons of basketball officiating, I have decided to try umpiring. I am really looking forward to the challenge. Also looking forward to some warm weather.