Page 2 – Become An Umpire

Baseball umpire listening calmly to a coach during an on-field dispute

In Control, Not Just In Charge: The Umpire Mindset That Keeps the Game on Track

Want to earn real respect behind the plate? It’s not about barking orders or flexing authority. It’s about staying calm, composed, and in control—especially when the pressure’s on. The most effective umpires aren’t just “in charge” of the game—they’re in control of it. And that small shift in mindset makes all the difference. Let’s…

Rules and Rule Interpretation

An Umpire’s Deep Dive into the Infield Fly Rule

As an umpire, one of baseball's most important and often misunderstood rules is the infield fly rule. This rule can be a source of confusion and controversy for players, coaches, and fans alike. In this deep dive, we will explore the intricacies of the infield fly rule and how to enforce it on the field. The…

Baseball bats and helmets neatly lined up along the dugout fence before a game.

Umpire Conferences and Meetings

Pre-Game Equipment Checks

As an umpire, ensuring the game runs smoothly and safely starts before the first pitch is thrown. One crucial aspect of preparation is conducting equipment checks. You will want to check all bats to ensure they are the proper size and not damaged, and helmets to ensure there are no cracks. Also, check any other…

Umpire Mechanics Umpire Positions

How To Be Successful: One-Umpire Mechanics

There will likely be a time in your umpiring career when you will be asked to umpire a game by yourself. It is not uncommon due to the lack of umpires at all levels. Some higher baseball divisions may not allow a one-umpire system, but while it is not the preferred method, several youth leagues…

Umpire Positions

Where Do Base Umpires Stand For A Little League Game?

A base umpire will stand in different positions during the game. The positioning depends on if there are runners on base and where the runners are. It is important to remember that Little League games are played on a 60-foot diamond, and there are no lead-offs. This is often referred to as closed bases. When…

Umpire Tips

How to clean and polish your umpire shoes

It's no big secret that appearance is significant to an umpire, and shining your shoes is no exception. No matter what level of the game you will be umpiring, your shoes are a big part of looking good. To clean and polish your umpire shoes: Start by removing any loose dirt and debris with a…

Umpire Conferences and Meetings

Why Do Umpires Meet At The Plate Before A Game?

Known as "The plate meeting, or Pre-game Plate Meeting" this happens before every game. It is an opportunity for the umpires to show their professional appearance and demeanor to take control and authority over the game before it even starts. Umpires meet with the managers of both teams to exchange lineups and go over ground…

Umpire Mechanics Umpire Tips

Giving the Count: The Do’s and Don’ts

As an experienced umpire with years of practice, I am confident in sharing the do's and don'ts of giving the count on the field. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for any umpire looking to make accurate calls and maintain control of the game. As an umpire, one of your primary responsibilities is to give the…

Umpire Tools and Equipment

How Do Umpires Keep Track of Balls and Strikes?

Umpires can sometimes lose the count and number of outs, but there is an easy solution to avoid this. Umpires use a tool called an indicator, also known to non-umpires as a CLICKER. As an umpire, you have a lot of responsibilities, but the number one responsibility of the plate umpire is balls and strikes…