outside protector

[Robmoz]

Originally Posted by Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.

With all due respect Chuck, your two cents isn't worth even one cent. I am almost 61 and MTD, Jr., is 23, and we bought "ballons" for use during summer fast pitch tournaments for the following reason: The FP tournaments in our area are played under the following time constraints: A game lasts 1:20 and a new game starts every 1:30. That means a crew has only ten minutes to change from Plate Gear to Base Gear and vice versa. If you are like Mark, Jr., and I that means changing in or out of full Plate Gear which really cannot be done in 10 minutes and when it is very hot, it means that one does not really have a time to take a break between games.

Using a "ballon" allows us to wear Combo Pants and all we have to do is change between Plate and Base shoes and shin guards.

MTD, Sr.

Considering time constraints, it is what it is but take the time necessary to change your gear, the next game will wait for you and most times you'll catch up the schedule due to other reasons by the end of the day. BUT...Hard to believe that taking your shirt off, adding a protector and putting your shirt back on takes more than 2 minutes but the bigger issue is schedulers that wanna cram in games every 1'30" and expect things to run like a German train schedule all day...with no consideration for the umpire crew in the least. I'm not in favor of the "ballon", but to each his own I guess.

What's next, stand behind the pitcher to call balls and strikes because its too hot to suit up? Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, find shade between innings, use ice towels, etc. be prepared for the heat!