* Shirts should be cleaned and neatly pressed.

Transcription

1 ONE UNIFORM Your uniform is a reflection of the pride you demonstrate in your umpiring. Proper fit and cleanliness are essential. Generally the first impression people have of the umpires is their personal appearance. The utmost importance should be given to your uniform and equipment. Appearance is a solid attribute to good umpiring. The well-groomed umpire will create an atmosphere of respect and dignity. I THE UNIFORM: A. The shirt: * Shirts should be cleaned and neatly pressed. * Plate shirts should be extra large to allow a comfortable fit over the inside chest protector if that style of protector is used. * The shirttail should remain neatly tucked into the pants at all times. B. The Pants: * Plate pants should be cut slightly larger than the base pants to accommodate the shin guards. In addition, the plate pants should measure slightly longer in length since the plate umpires working position will cause the pant leg to rise. C. Coats, Sweaters, Windbreakers: * Outer coats, sweaters, and windbreakers may be worn during cold or inclement weather conditions, or at the discretion of the umpire. When possible, both umpires should wear outer garments that are similar in their style, and color. * Plate coats, if worn, should be custom-fitted to comfortably accommodate the inside protector. * Plate coats should have extra large pockets to enable the umpire to carry a sufficient supply of extra balls. 3

2 D. Footwear: E. Underwear: F. The Cap: * When working the plate a black or dark blue sock should be worn over white socks to avoid creating a distracting clash. * For special cushioning and absorption, some umpires wear two layers of socks. The white athletic sock is worn to help absorb sweat. * Base umpires should wear black leather athletic shoes, which have rubber soles. The sole should provide traction for quick acceleration, stops, and pivots. Choose a shoe, which has a strong ankle support. Make sure your shoes have the type arch support your feet need. * The plate umpire should always wear a durable, black leather shoe, which is constructed with a steel toe and protective flap for the top of the foot. These specialty shoes can be obtained through most officials' supplies stores. These shoes are designed to minimize the perils of injury from foul balls, wild pitches, and unpredictable catchers. A good plate shoe is a very important investment for the serious umpire. * The plate umpire should wear long undergarments. This serves two purposes: One, it absorbs perspiration helping to cool the body, and two, it provides a protective layer between the umpire's body and protective gear. * In cold weather situations, the umpire should wear whatever undergarments are necessary to stay comfortable. Umpire dress code restricts what outer garments can be worn, so remember to dress for warmth and comfort UNDERNEATH. * A fitted or adjustable wool blend is an acceptable style of cap to wear. * The plate umpire may wear the cap that has either the short bill, or the combo bill. * The Base umpire may wear the cap that has either the combo bill or the long bill. 4

3 * A fitted cap is preferred due to the more professional look it provides. Adjustable caps are acceptable if your association approves them. You should have a black and dark blue cap so you can wear the same color as your partner if your association does not stress one color over another. G. The Belt: * A BLACK or NAVY BLUE leather belt SHOULD be worn. Recommended with of 1 ¼ to 1 ½". II PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT A. The Chest Protector: * The plate umpire should choose a protector based on the amount of protection required, and comfort. The thickness of padding, the shoulder protection, and proper fit around the clavicle and throat are major considerations. * Chest protectors are manufactured in different lengths. When properly fitted, the bottom of the chest protector should extend just below the lower ribs. Choose the length, which provides the most protection without impairing mobility. * The most commonly used chest protector is the "Inside" protector. This style of protector is worn underneath the umpire shirt or jacket. * The "Outside" protector is an accepted alternative to the "inside", however it is not recommended because it greatly decreases the umpires' mobility. B. Shin Guards: * Choose a heavy-duty padded shin guard with adequate foam padding against the shin that maximizes protection and cushions blows to the leg. * Choose a length that fully covers the kneecap and extends down to the point where the plate shoe protection begins. 5

4 C. The Mask: * A mask must provide superb protection and clear visibility. Most umpires prefer the wire mask as opposed to the bar mask. Ultralight wire mask are preferred over heavier solid wire masks. * Most wire masks are available with throat and ear extensions welded on as part of the frame. These extensions provide great protection as long as the umpire keeps the head square to the plate and parallel to the ground. Throat guards are not mandatory, but are recommended for additional protection. D. Athletic Supporter and Cup: * To protect the genital area, the plate umpire must always wear a secure, elastic athletic supporter, (Jock Strap) or briefs, with a cup holder and a protective metal or plastic cup. It's also recommended that the field umpire wear a protective athletic supporter and cup, especially in the upper leagues. III OTHER EQUIPMENT A. The indicator: (NOT the "Clicker") * Plate umpires should always use the ball and strike indicator. * It will be up to the base umpire if they choose to carry an indicator. Be sure to check with your partner if he/she wants you to carry one or not. You may carry an indicator for your own personal preference. B. Plate Brush: * The plate brush should fit inconspicuously in the umpires back pant pocket, shirt/coat pocket, or in your ball bag. C. Pen/ Pencil: * The plate umpire should carry a pen or pencil to keep track of lineup card changes. 6

5 D. Ball Bag: * The plate umpire should wear at least one ball bag. Two ball bags are acceptable if you are carrying 4 or more baseballs. Base umpires should never wear ball bags. * The ball bags should be black, dark blue, or gray in color, and should be worn on the throwing arm side of the umpire if you choose to only wear one ball bag. 7