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<TD>FYI...<BR><BR>Several years ago, baseball took on a new female umpire. She has now made it up to AA ball and is working for the Southern League this year. I first saw her on the bases while visiting the Tennessee Smokies. Over the last month, she has been here in Greenville a couple of times and has very good plate presents, too.<BR><BR>From what I've seen, I would expect that it would not be very long before she moves up more. She is able to keep a very professional demeanor, and though I have not seen her in any really animated arguments, her "discussions" with the coaches have given the appearance that she is very much on top of her game control skills.</TD>
<TD><img src="http://www.jsonline.com/sports/brew/image/2001/may/t2ria0509.jpg"></TD>
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Her positioning, mechanics and on-field communication abilities are excellent as well. At first base, very crisp on the "pulled his foot" mechanic, swiping her hands to the side with good presents and authority. When on the plate, had one out, runner at first and a dropped third strike... the batter took off running but she immediately sold a big, "Batter's out."

Yet, she is not so stoic as to avoid the little half innings "mascot/umpire" things that are often asked of the officials at this level, things like wearing a plastic lei during the seventh inning stretch on "Jimmy Buffet Parrothead" night.

More info: http://www.southernleague.com/2003Um...rtesio2003.htm

"Hobbies/Off-Season Activities: enjoys tap dancing, crochet, Kung Fu, watching John Wayne movies, and listening to music"

Married?