Partner peeves

[bluezebra]

I've worked with all those types, including #4. This ump in HS varsity games (a female) took it upon herself in one game (she always had the plate), when as soon as I called out the batter/runner at first, to come charging out, hollering, "safe, she dropped the ball", before an appeal was made. Another time, there were four boys watching the game, doing some nice cheers, when she had them stop. They were getting into the spirit of fun and weren't being obnoxious or vulgar. The third time, and the last (I told the assignor I wouldn't work with her again), the home school (Hollywood High) plays their games at a nearby public park. A rather large man (picture NFL lineman) goes up to the top row of the bleachers with a can of beer. She screams at him to leave. He was just sitting there, quietly, watching. I'm the only male on the field, and figure I've got to stop him if he goes after her. Luckily, he left, shaking his head. The next morning, I called the assignor and requested not to work with her again.

When I worked with the other three types, I also called the assignor and politely told him/her what the problem was, and to not assign me with them again. It's difficult to work with someone who gets you into trouble, and you can't tell the coaches to ignore it.

Bob