Good luck strutting anywhere with four balls!

This thread has gone so far off topic, but is so fun to read!

As intense as our focus can be on the fields, we umpires tend oh look a puppy!

Ha!!

They should have a dress code for fans at the park... one hot mom had me calling a IFF with no runners on.... :o :D (gotta blame it on someone)

I'm still trying to figure out what your complaint is...

me too.

The "hot moms" dial on his indiclicker only went up to "9" is my guess. :)

Thanks for reminding me!

http://sabian.whispers.org/indicator2.jpg

i don't use an indicator..it really makes you focus on the game and each pitch...give it a try (in a rec game first)

No thank you. While you may be right about focus, the indicator is a required piece of equipment for all umpires on the softball field; it isn't optional.

I rather focus on the next pitch, rather than the last pitch. :)

Someone lost his focus :D

I always have it. If I find myself drifting during a game,:o I'll put it in my pocket for an inning or two. It's my way to bring my focus back to where it belongs.

JMHO, rubbish. Your focus ISN'T on the game, but a memory exercise.

You can sell that snake oil all you want, haven't bought it is the 43 years I have worked baseball and softball. It is a tool of the trade just as is a mask, chest protector, shin guards or cup.

There is an umpire in our association who thinks not using an indicator is manly and professional. He hides behind the catcher, moves on pitches, spends more time talking to the coaches and fans than watching the game and he often loses the count. It gets so absurd, teams try to keep female coaches off 1B and even the coaches jerk him around about the count. Oh, BTW, did I mention the pebbles he carries?