MLB use of 6 man crews for the playoffs

[bob jenkins]

As I've heard, it started when the extra umpires used to just sit in the stands and one of the field umpires missed a fair / foul call at the foul pole. SO, instead of having them sit, they put them to (some) use.

I doubt if the union is going to let it go away.

ANd while it might be unique to pro sports, other levels of baseball also tend to add umpires during season-end tournaments (going from 2 to 3 or 3 to 4 for example)

[voiceoflg]

Originally Posted by bob jenkins

As I've heard, it started when the extra umpires used to just sit in the stands and one of the field umpires missed a fair / foul call at the foul pole. SO, instead of having them sit, they put them to (some) use.

I doubt if the union is going to let it go away.

ANd while it might be unique to pro sports, other levels of baseball also tend to add umpires during season-end tournaments (going from 2 to 3 or 3 to 4 for example)

High schools in Georgia go from two-man to three-man in the playoffs. In fact, I *think* that topic has been discussed on this board.

[DG]

Playoffs in NC expand from 2 for first and 2nd rounds, to 3 for mid level, and then 4 for regionals and state championship.