How do ya do it

[dilligaf]

I had the pleasure of working with one of the UMPIRES tonight. This was a guy who complained about every umpire he has ever worked with. He did the bases on this occasion. During our pre-game I was covering with him the assignments we would both cover. He gave a nod but never stated what he would actually do. I admit it made me work harder to make sure the correct calls were being made. Between innings I would take my position along the foul line and he would make his way to my position and start in with his griping about other umpires.

Between the next inning I took the foul line farthest away from him and believe it or not he again came over to complain about this and that. Finally on the next mid inning I just made it impossible for him to track me down. It went two more innings and he again came to me. I finally told him that I was not interested in hearing about other umpires and I just wanted to focus on the one I was doing.

The issue is that he is a high ranking official in our association and carries a great deal of influence on who gets additional assignments. I know I will now be on his CRAPPY Umpire list.

I am going to stay focused on improving my game and giving it 100% both on and off the field.

My question is should I just keep my mouth shut when I am questioned about him by league officials or should I inform them about the issues. I admit that his complaining about other official wore on me a bit and I am sure that others may or may not get the same feelings when they work with him. Input would be appreciated.
Many thanks.