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…

Umpire Tips

10 Tips For New Umpires

Stepping onto the field as a new umpire might feel like entering uncharted territory, but fear not – Umpiring tips, tricks, and secrets to keep your game moving smoothly are key items. Knowing the right umpire tips to use at the right time can save time and make you look like a seasoned veteran on…

Umpire Positions

Where Should A Home Plate Umpire Stand?

You're not alone if you are still determining exactly where you should stand during the game as a home plate umpire. There are a couple of different places a home plate umpire can stand on the field during the game. The optimal position for a home plate umpire is the "slot," strategically placed directly behind…

Umpire Tips

How To Become A Little League Umpire

So you want to become a Little League umpire. Looks pretty easy from outside the fence, after all, how hard can it be, right? The truth is, anyone can step on the field and umpire a game, but will you be successful? Yes, you can! Just like any other job you need to…

Step Behind the Plate and Join the Crew