My balloon protector is going with me tomorrow

[AtlUmpSteve]

In my opinion, you can only use unsportsmanlike conduct if you believe the player or coach is making no effort to field the position reasonably. It is not unsportsmanlike conduct to simply be incapable of protecting the umpire; it is unsportsmanlike conduct to not make a reasonable effort.

If they are that incapable, I believe you are justified in making the adjustments to your mechanics that you believe are appropriate; that may be backing up, it may be calling from behind the pitcher, it may require more protective equipment (how about a 4x8 sheet of plywood with cutout eyeholes??). You are only justified in encouraging a change if the catcher is making no effort; you are justified in treating lack of effort the same as intentionally allowing or causing us to get injured.

[wadeintothem]

Thats about as reasonable a response as I've heard..

Unfortunately the powers that be believe I am a human back stop.

Thats not happening though, I need to work M-F.