Review of Smitty Apparel Expander Waist Umpire Pants (BBS-376)

Most baseball umpire associations around the country are now choosing charcoal as the pants color of choice. [“Pants?” “Pant?” Well, pants is the 19^th century shortened version of pantaloons. It seems that even then there was disagreement on whether the correct version should be “pant” or “pants:”  The thing named ‘pants’ in certain documents, A word not made for gentlemen, but ‘gents’. –American jurist/poet Oliver Wendell Holmes, Rhymed Lesson, 1846. With all due deference to Justice Holmes, I will stick with "pants" for purposes of this article. – ed.] Actually, this shift may have more to do with shirt color, since many groups now choose polo blue, black and cream colored shirts, which look best with charcoal pants, rather than navy or powder blue shirts. Softball umpires prefer to stay with the heather gray pants because it looks good with powder blue and red shirts.

In response to this shift, Smitty Apparel has introduced charcoal umpire pants with an expander waist system. These pants are 100% polyester (not a polyester-wool blend) and are machine washable for easy care. They also feature a Smitty Comfort Grip Waistband to keep your shirt tucked in, wide belt loops, a button tab and tuxedo clasp closure, a button loop on the left back pocket, and a heavy duty zipper.

I tested the Smitty Apparel BBS-376 charcoal umpire plate pants. Thanks to Dawn at Smitty Apparel for sending me a pair.

Like all plate pants, the BBS-376 uses saddle stitching to reinforce the seat. The legs are also cut wide to accommodate your leg guards. I reviewed Smitty Apparel pants previously, and found that the cut is slim through the hip area. I did not notice this while wearing the Smitty BBS-376 during my review. I had a full, unrestricted range, even with my healthy posterior. However, my measurements show that these pants are cut slightly slimmer. The rise is 11.5”, measured from the bottom of waistband to center point of crotch between legs, and the hips measurement (around the fullest part of the seat) is 52”. In comparison, the Honig’s poly-wools are cut “fuller” with a 12” rise and 54” around the hips. The Smitty pants are also slightly lighter weight than the Honig's poly-wools.

I had my doubts whether the expander waistband would be effective. I wondered if the expander would create a loose feeling fit while on the dish. Happily this was not the case. I wear two ball bags while working the plate, and I did not experience any “sag” from these pants. The expander waist seemed to work flawlessly - which could be a godsend for those early season games when I’m not yet at my fighting weight!

While the material is not the same as the Honig’s poly-wool pants, the material appearance is surprisingly similar between the two pants, especially from a distance. Unfortunately, there is a color difference that is noticeable.

On the left is a pair of Gerry Davis pants, in the center is the Honig's poly-wools, and on the right is the Smitty Apparel BBS-376. 

The Smitty Apparel Expander Waist Umpire Pants (BBS-376) can be purchased from Purchase Officials for $39.99. They are available in the expander waistband for base, plate or combo in heather or charcoal colors. These pants are also sold at Ump-Attire.com for $44.95.

Fair or Foul?

This call is like a screaming line drive down the right field line with no one on. The first base umpire must be avoid the ball and sometimes make an impossibly close call. First, the positives: (1) the expander waistband is terrific; (2) a polyester fabric means that you are not a slave to dry cleaning; (3) the fit is good; (4) the price is very, very good. 

Now the negatives: (1) the color does not match the two most popular charcoal pant worn by amateur umpires. Naturally, if you and your partner match, I have no reservations calling this product fair. For instance, the Collegiate Baseball Umpires Assigning Organization requires members to wear CBUAO embroidered Smitty charcoal pants. Finally, (2) the polyester material used in the Smitty Apparel Expander Waist Umpire Pants is not quite as good as the Honig's poly-wool blend pants.

So I need to get help from my partner on this call. Do umpires in your area wear Smitty Apparel charcoal pants? Then your call is "Fair." If your area does not wear Smitty Apparel charcoal pants, then the call is "Foul."

Review of New Balance MU460 Umpire Plate Shoe

I was sad because I had no shoes, until I met a man who had no feet. So I said, "Got any shoes you’re not using?"

― Steven Wright

Some umpires make really silly choices about their safety when working the dish. I have seen guys forgo a chest protector, shin guards, and even a cup (ouch!), but the most common protective item not worn by amateur umpires is without question the plate shoe. When asked, the reasons are that plate shoes are either too expensive or uncomfortable. Well, the former reason is just silly. The best plate shoes on the market typically hover around $100. Find a good deal, and you can get excellent plate shoes for under $60. That is a small price to pay to protect against a broken toe.

As for comfort, the new line of umpire shoes from New Balance and Reebok fit like comfortable athletic shoes! A few years ago I switched to the New Balance MU450 Plate Shoe because of its sneaker-like fit. Later I discovered the Reebok Field Magistrate Plate Shoe, which won the UMPY Award for the Umpire Shoe category in 2009, 2010, and 2011. The New Balance MU460 is even more comfortable than the Reebok Field Magistrate.

So, What’s New Pussycat?

New Balance sent me a pair of MU460 to test and review. The literature states that the MU460 Umpire Plate Shoe has:

• Breathable mesh upper with met guard to protect the foot
• 40% more cushioning to ensure comfort
• 10% lighter than previous models
• Shoe shine compatible

It is the Official on-field umpire shoe of Major League Baseball. The shoe advertises this fact on the tongue and on the heel. Fortunately the tongue logo is concealed by the pant leg and the heel logo is very small.

Appearance and Construction

The MU460 is a pretty good looking plate shoe. Years ago umpire plate shoes looked like they were designed by Herman Munster. The new generation of umpire plate shoes look good and feel great. The large metatarsal plate on the MU460 is angled toward the toe to give a sleek appearance.

The company has placed its ubiquitous logo on the side of the shoe. Honestly, after wearing New Balance MU450s and the Reebok Field Magistrate plate shoes, I'm numb to the shoe company logos. However, New Balance offers the MU460s in an optional muted logo design.

The New Balance MU460 is made from synthetic leather. It doesn't feel like leather, but I guess it looks like leather and keeps a shiny appearance. I have used both water and scrubbing bubbles on it, and so far it has cleaned up nicely. As a side note, the Reebok Field Magistrate is made from a combination of full grain leather and synthetic leather. 

The metatarsal plate is wide and provides excellent coverage. Under the metatarsal plate is a cushion that is covered with mesh fabric. The shoe's tongue and laces area uses a moisture wicking fabric with a mesh covering. The idea here is twofold: first, pull moisture away from the foot and allow it to evaporate; and second, decrease the weight of the shoe.

Fit and Comfort

The MU460 runs true to size. If you wear a size 11 medium width in a New Balance athletic shoe, order a size 11 medium width in the plate shoe. My thick socks fit comfortably in the MU460, as do thinner socks.

I have a pair of New Balance MU450 in D width size 11. The MU460 are 2E width and size 10.5. The weight of the MU450 is 27 ounces. The MU460 is 28 ounces! Let me reiterate that this is not comparing weights of the same shoe dimensions. Also note that the Reebok Field Magistrate Umpire Plate Shoe in size 11 D is 25.5 ounces.

The MU460 is a very comfortable shoe. There is a generous amount of padding in the ankle area. New Balance advertises the use of ABZORB® (a blend of Dupont™ Engage® and Isoprene rubber) in the heel and forefoot for shock absorption.

The toe box has been increased. The tight toe box was an issue in the old MU450s, so the MU460s are made with a wide and comfortable all steel toe box.

Protection

At the time of this article, I have worn the New Balance MU460s for three plate games. I have not been hit in the foot or toe while wearing this shoe. I am impressed with the metatarsal coverage and the use of the all stell toe box.

New Balance has produced two promotional videos to demonstrate the effectiveness of its shoe:

Price
The New Balance MU460 Umpire Plate Shoe can be purchased from the following retailers:

Homerun Monkey - $109.99. An extra 10% discount can be had by using the code spring10

Ump-Attire.com - $114.99

Honig's - $119.95

Fair or Foul?

There are a lot of things to like about the New Balance MU460 Umpire Plate Shoes. They are more comfortable than either the New Balance MU450s or the Reebok Field Magistrate. The MU460 also offers superior metatarsal protection, an all steel toe box, and the price is competitive to the Reebok Field Magistrate. My call is absolutely Fair!

Review of the Smitty Thermal Full Zip Umpire Jacket

Hello, I’m Pete. This is my brother Darryl. . . a little over a year ago Midwest Ump reviewed the Majestic Therma Base Umpire Jacket. What a great jacket! Good fit, great quality, nice price. . .

and this is my other brother Darryl: the Smitty Thermal Full Zip Umpire Jacket.

Dawn at Smitty Apparel sent me a sample of their new thermal umpire jacket. I've mentioned it before on this site, the folks at Smitty are really, really nice people. They also happen to make very high quality officiating apparel!

The measurements of the XL Majestic and the XL Smitty are nearly identical. It is more practical to talk about the differences: the sleeves on the Smitty are ¼ inch longer; the overall length of the Smitty is ½ inch longer (not including the ribbed collar or ribbing at the bottom of the jacket); and the collar of the Smitty is 1/2 “ taller. Both the Smitty and the Majestic weigh exactly the same, 2.1 pounds (using a hanger and a fish scale from Bass Pro. Yep, real scientific-like).

Both jackets are very roomy and easily accommodate a chest protector, but also look good on the bases. Since these jackets are sized to accommodate a CP, it is recommended that you buy a size smaller if you desire a closer fit on the bases. The exterior of both coats is a polyester material that is water resistant, not water proof.  I cannot tell a difference in the material by touch. The interior fabric of the Smitty is 100% polyester fleece. The Majestic is 92% polyester and 8% spandex. The Majestic fleece is a little softer than the Smitty. However, Smitty has sewn in an interior polyester fabric on top of its fleece. This extra layer helps prevent wear and damage to the fleece from your CP.  

The construction quality of both jackets appears excellent. The stitching on both jackets is tight and uniform. There are no frayed edges or loose stitching. Both jackets have one breast pocket for your lineup cards. Neither jacket has hand pockets or an interior pocket.

The Smitty jacket I tested was a plain navy blue, a color required by the NFHS. The Smitty Thermal Full Zip Umpire Jacket is available in a variety in several popular colors including navy with red/white/navy shoulder stripes; black with white stripes; and black with white/powder blue stripes. Unlike the Majestic, there is no logo on the Smitty jacket I tested.

The best price tag on the Majestic Therma Base Jacket is around $80.  The new Smitty Thermal Jacket is being sold for $69.99 by Purchase Officials. I understand that all sizes and styles will be widely available after the first of the year.

Fair or Foul?

They say that "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery" (well, Charles Caleb Colton said it first). The Majestic is an amazing coat and the Smitty Thermal Full Zip Umpire Jacket is a carbon copy of it. The Smitty is the same jacket offered at a lower price and available in different colors. So go ahead and call me a Darryl, 'cause  I call the Smitty Thermal Full Zip Umpire Jacket absolutely Fair!

Review of All Star System Seven Leg Guards (LGU2000)

Leg guards are as under-appreciated as your wallet. I don’t mean “wallet” as an euphemism for cash. I mean it as in the statement, “George Costanza has a fat wallet” - not as in the ZZ Top lyrics to Sharp Dressed Man (Top coat, Top hat, I don't worry cause my wallet’s fat).

Nobody thinks about his wallet. No umpire thinks about his leg guards. Some umpires will go a decade (or longer!) with the same leg guards. There is no problem. . . until there’s a problem.

So the question is: do you want leg guards that you only think about when there's a problem, or do you want leg guards that never have a problem?

If you want protection, with a large serving of comfort, the All Star System Seven Leg Guards (LGU2000) are the way to go. The LGU2000 leg guards are not light. At 32 ounces each, they are as heavy as the Wilson Charcoal Leg Guards (A3417). That's 17.5 ounces heavier than the Diamond DLG-LITE Featherweight Shin Guards.

Like the Wilson A3417 leg guards, the All Star has a double knee design and wrap around protection. A toe cap is removable, and is held on by Velcro. The All Star comes in 17" and 18" lengths.

Unlike the Wilson guards, the All Star fits like a glove! All Star places two pads inside the leg guard: one at the shin, and one at the knee. The pads are very comfortable and adjustable for a custom fit. The knee pad is called the "Patella Plus," and is designed to absorb impact and hold the knee in place. These pads are removable for washing, and are treated with the Aeigis Microbe Sheild to kill bacterial growth.

Unlike the Wilson A3417 guards, the padding on the All Star is riveted to the plastic plates. The knee does not "float" like the Wilson charcoal. But the All Star features air vents built into the plates. The All Star comes with a DeltaFlex harness, a huge advancement in comfort! The All Star System Seven Leg Guards are also available in two styles, single knee (LGU1000) and double knee (LGU2000, reviewed herein).

I am a big fan of low profile gear. I believe heavy equipment makes an umpire look like Robo-Cop. At 22" circumference at the knee, and 21" circumference at the middle of the shin, the All Star System Seven Leg Guards are not low profile.

But all of this pretty talk means nothing if they don't protect. Remember, nobody sees your wallet, and nobody sees your leg guards. The All Star guards have no gaping between the plates, use plenty of padding to absorb nasty impacts (especially around the knee), and provide adequate side impact coverage. Like the Wilson A3417, the All Star guards are protect like a tank.

The All Star System Seven Leg Guards are available from the following on-line retailers:

Baseball Plus Store - $119.95 and free shipping

Lester's Upstate Sports - $135

Better Baseball - $129.95

Ump-Attire - $134.99 (remember to apply your Umpire-Empire membership discount!)

That is roughly $40-$50 more expensive than the Wilson A3417.

Fair or Foul?

The All Star System Seven Leg Guards are very, very comfortable! They are just as protective as the Wilson A3417, but they are very, very comfortable! (Did I mention that?)

If the All Star System Seven Leg Guards had been around in the '80's, ZZ Top would have sung about them. You know, something like, "Women go crazy 'bout these leg guards, man!" Well, maybe not, but I think they are fantastic. My call is FAIR!

Postscript: This review would not have been possible without the generous cooperation of Jim Kirk at Ump-Attire. Jim sent me the All Star System Seven Chest Protector and Leg Guards so that I could review these products for you on Midwest Ump. Thanks, Jim!!!

Review of All-Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector (CPU4000)

Wilson Sporting Goods has dominated the umpire equipment market for years. The chief reason for this is their hard shell chest protector, patented by MLB Umpire Joe West. The West Vest design is basically hard plastic plates over soft foam padding. The plates deflect the baseball’s impact energy, while the foam lining is mostly for comfort. This design has been tweaked over the years to provide excellent comfort and protection.

Wilson and Joe West have been able to maintain “king of the hill” status by challenging similarly designed chest protectors as infringing upon the West Vest patent. A few companies have been forced to quit manufacturing their chest protectors due to close similarity with the Wilson products, most notably Douglas and Champion.

The All Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector is the first legitimate challenge in years to the Wilson line-up of professional chest protectors. All-Star has been aggressively pursuing the amateur umpire dollars through product testing and development. All Star used a team of amateur umpires across the country to provide input during the development of the CPU 4000.

Appearance

The first thing All Star did right was make this CP all black.  Light colors can bleed through an open hole umpire shirt and be an unsightly distraction. All Star places one simple white logo on the front of the CPU4000. It is strategically placed to be constantly visible while wearing a plate coat.

The design is atypical for a hard shell CP. 4mm plastic plates are used, but what makes this CP unusual are the two layers of foam pads under the plates. The total thickness at the base of the chest protector is 1-1/16”, very average for a hard shell CP, and creates a low-profile appearance under the umpire’s shirt. The padding is tapered so that less padding is used at the shoulder area. The All Star plates and padding measures only ¾ inch at the neck opening.

There are 42 shiny stainless steel rivets that that are described as “rust proof.” Well, “rust proof” just means “rust resistant” and will rust over time. I recommend sealing these rivets with clear, silver, or black fingernail polish. The fingernail polish will also reduce the shine and will make the rivets less noticeable under your umpire shirt.

The CP4000 uses plastic buckles to connect the harness to the chest protector. The buckles are permanently attached with stitching and a rivet, making replacement very difficult. The buckle is one foul ball away from making the CP4000 worthless. A metal t-hook attachment, like used in Wilson CPs, is vastly superior. 

Comfort

The All Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector hangs from the shoulders due to its pre-curved shoulder plate design. This is a prominent design feature of the Douglas CP, and provides a move comfortable and custom fit. It also is effective at preventing chest protector sag. An umpire pushing up his CP during a ball game is as uncomely as a woman adjusting her bra.

At three pounds, eleven ounces, this CP is by far the heaviest Midwest Ump has tested. However, the curved shoulders distribute the weight much better than many other chest protectors, so the All Star does not seem as heavy.

All Star uses its specially designed DeltaFlex harness on the CPU4000. The DeltaFlex has four adjustable points. A soft neoprene center triangle connects the harness straps and evenly distributes the weight and pressure.

As stated earlier, two layers of padding are used for comfort. The first pad is riveted directly to the plates. This is likely to avoid patent infringement with the Wilson design, which is the direction Champion had to proceed. The permanently attached padding means that it cannot be separated for cleaning.

The second layer of padding is attached to the first layer by Velcro. It is fully adjustable and washable. The second layer foam feels like Brock Beads, a foam that is used in the Schutt AiR Flex CP. I am unable to confirm the foam product used, and was unable to inspect because this CP is a loaner from Jim Kirk at Ump-Attire (thanks, Jim! Without your assistance, this review would not have been possible). The padding is treated with Aegis Microbe Shield, so it doesn’t funk up on you.

The second layer of padding is separated by a wide (3”, but adjustable) center channel that runs the length of the protector. This channel is approximately ¾” deep and is meant to increase air circulation and keep you cooler. What an innovative design!

The neck opening on the All Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector is narrow. Add to this the close placement of the plastic plates, and this is a recipe for irritation. Some umpires have reported that the neck opening rubs during wear. The neck opening can be adjusted somewhat, but this is a common complaint with the All Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector.

The shoulder pad placement is restrictive and cannot be adjusted. This makes throwing the ball back to the pitcher a nuisance.

Protection

The efficacy of a hard shell protector depends on the placement and size of its plates. The All Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector gets it right. The All Star uses large 4mm plates that are attached together to work in tandem and distribute the impact of a baseball. The shoulder plates overlap a large center plate which runs down the center of the chest protector. This center plate overlaps two smaller (but still large) plates that protect the mid-section.  Small oblique plates are not attached to the larger plates. The end result of this design is a chest protector that offers outstanding protection.

As discussed above, the neck opening is narrow. The plastic plates are pushed up around the umpire’s neck to provide superior sternum and clavicle protection. The shoulder area is also bullet-proof with two shoulder caps. Unlike other shoulder cap designs, these two caps are not bulky.

The CPU4000 is available in two lengths: 12 Inch and 15 Inch. Midwest Ump tested the small 12 inch length. I have a longer torso, and the 12 inch length covered my ribs. The advertising is that the 12” model will cover your rib cage like a 13”, and I can confirm this.

Pricing

The All Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector (CPU4000) has been recently released, and is currently offered by the following on-line retailers:

Lester’s Upstate Sports - $155.00

Baseball Plus - $124.95 plus free shipping (back ordered until mid-January)

Ump-Attire - $154.99

Better Baseball - $149.95

Fair or Foul?

The All Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector is absolutely FAIR! But is it a home run? Some umpires say yes, some say no, but we all agree that the All-Star System Seven Umpire Chest Protector (CPU4000) is definitely a “ball to the wall,” and every umpires should “go out on” this product to make the call.

The All Star CPU4000 is very comfortable, breathable, offers superior protection, and incorporates innovative design features. All Star has made a wining umpire chest protector!

Review of Mid-American Advanced Umpire Clinic

2011 Mid-American Advanced Umpire Clinic

September 15-18, 2011

Springfield, Missouri

Ramada Oasis Convention Center

Cost: $400.00

Being a good umpire requires proficiency in three areas: rules, situations, and mechanics. Rules training is a matter of hard work and study. Handling situations largely comes from experience.

Proper mechanics is acquired from sweat equity.

You can’t simply read about how to umpire, you have to get out and do it. That is why camps and clinics are so important to an umpire’s education. Being in position, employing good timing, and using proper mechanics are essential to good umpiring. These skills are not learned over night and must be drilled.

The Mid-American Advanced Umpire Clinic

The Mid-American Advanced Umpire Clinic is one of the elite college umpire clinics in the nation. Each year, the clinic draws college level umpires from around the Midwest for four days of training in Springfield, Missouri.

The clinic is headquartered at the Ramada Oasis Convention Center, indoor instruction takes place at the Hammons Field indoor training facility, and games are held at various sites around Springfield. The Ramada conference facilities were good. The Ramada offered a special room rate that included breakfast. A restaurant and bar located inside the Ramada was also very comfortable and the staff was friendly. The Hammons indoor facility is spacious and easily accommodated the entire group.

The Instructors

A camp or clinic is only as good as its instructors. At some clinics the instructors are mere figureheads. They may sit in the stands and watch while cracking a joke or telling a story. The instructors at the MidAmerican Advanced Umpire Clinic teach. They are very “hands-on” and provide each student with intelligent feedback.

The student-instructor ratio is around four to one. That is much better than you typically get at a weekend umpire clinic; however the real difference is in the quality of the instructor that you get. At the Mid-American Advanced Umpire Clinic, you have a 100% chance of being paired with an instructor who has worked the College World Series, or who has extensive experience in professional baseball. This really is an impressive list:

Dick Runchey - Five College World Series, first umpire inducted into the College Baseball Foundation Hall of Fame.

Joe Burleson - Four College World Series; 2008 Olympics;  Major League Baseball AAA Umpire Supervisor.

Jeff Henrichs - Three College World Series

Randy Bruns - Three College World Series; eight years professional umpire

Mike Morris – four NCAA regionals

Clint Fagan – Current AAA/MLB call up umpire. Clint was called up to work MLB games in Kansas City and Minnesota while at this clinic.

Chris Coskey – One College World Series

Greg Chittenden – seven years professional umpire

Along with the instructors, there were other umpires and assigners who attended the clinic:

Rich Fetchiet - three College World Series, Supervisor of Baseball Umpires for Big Ten Conference, Big Twelve Conference, Conference USA, Mid-American Conference, Missouri Valley Conference, Horizon League, Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, Great Lakes Valley Conference, North Coast Athletic Conference, Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association, Mid-Central Collegiate Conference, the Collegiate Baseball Umpires Alliance and is Co-Supervisor of the Big East Conference.

Rick Denny - Supervisor of Umpires for the MIAA (NCAA D-II) & KCAC (NAIA).

Assignor for several midwest colleges (NCAA D-I thru JUCO).

Shawn Vellek - Supervisor of Umpires for the Northern Sun (NCAA D-II); Assignor for several midwest colleges (NCAA D-I thru JUCO)

Bob Bainter - owner of the Oceanside Umpire Training Seminar and 10 years professional umpire

Jason Blackburn - owner of the Mid-American Umpire Clinic and college a umpire

My Experience

The first night at the clinic was a meet and greet at the Ramada, then off to the Hammons Field indoor training facility for cage work. Half of the students stayed at the indoor facility to work on plate mechanics. This was a time to get initially meet the instructors and fine-tune your plate mechanics. The other half of the group went to review and discuss video of special rule situations with Joe Burleson, Dick Runchey, and Randy Bruns. This was a great opportunity to sit and listen to how top flight umpires apply the rules in difficult situations.

The morning of the second day the entire group met at a local college field and ran through taking plays on the infield, and three man rotations. This is an advanced three man clinic, so umpires are expected to have a solid foundation in three man mechanics. The benefit of this clinic is not in learning the three man umpire system; its learning advanced three man mechanics. This on-field training was very good and included advanced techniques and hints for better umpiring.

In the afternoon of the second day we split into groups and worked college level games around Springfield. Instructors were assigned to the groups as evaluators, and each student worked innings on the plate, at first base, and at third base. The student’s work is video taped so he can review his performance at home. At the end of the innings the students receive a written evaluation.

While working the games, the instructor(s) give immediate feedback to the student. In many cases an instructor will move onto the field to make adjustments while the game proceeds. I have attended several clinics that use this same “instant feedback” method. This is the most common format for umpire camps and clinics, and frankly, it’s awful. Trying to umpire with an instructor in your ear is very distracting. In many cases the umpire’s attention is divided when he is trying to make a suggested adjustment while the game is occurring. Consequently, the student does not receive a fair and objective evaluation, nor is the instruction very effective.

Many amateur umpires attend clinics to be seen by assigners. This is unfortunate because the “instant feedback” method does not provide the assigner with an objective look at the umpire’s skills. Likewise, just working a few innings does not provide a good basis for a fair evaluation.

After working college level games on Friday, students and instructors met at a Ramada conference room for finger foods. The instructors told war stories and answered student questions. There was a cash bar, so the conversation was lively.

More college games were planned for Saturday, but then something wonderful happened. The rain-rain-rain came down-down-down all over the Springfield area and washed out all of our games for the weekend!

A rainout would cause a panic for many clinics. I attended this clinic with six friends from around the Midwest, and we all wondered how the rain would affect the clinic schedule. Some even discussed leaving early. I have been to clinics where an unexpected event throws the whole clinic out of whack.

Fortunately, clinic organizers Greg Chittenden and Chris Coskey were well prepared. The group moved indoors to the Springfield Cardinals indoor facility at Hammons Field.  Supervised games and evaluations were replaced with more detailed work in plate and field mechanics.

Some of the best instruction I have ever received occurred while it rained that weekend. Notably, Clint Fagan and Joe Burleson put on a graduate level umpiring seminar in taking plays at second base. This advanced instruction was extremely insightful.

I was also fortunate to have Dick Runchey supervise my case group. Dick gave us a situation and we performed the proper mechanic. For instance: “Runner on first. Bunted ball down first base line hits the batter outside the box.” Then the plate umpire performed the proper mechanic just as in a live game while Dick gave feedback and instruction.

Since this is an advanced clinic, the group discussed advanced topics like, “What makes a good partner?” Other topics included handling situations with coaches and players, and professionalism. These topics were especially educational since they were discussed by top flight amateur college umpires, and not current professionals who have a different perspective.

The Mid-American Advanced Umpire Clinic is working closely with the Collegiate Baseball Umpires Alliance, the major college assigning organization in the Midwest, to identify and develop quality umpires. During the clinic each umpire was registered, profiled, and placed into a CBUA database that is available to CBUA assigning officials.

Critique

My experience at the Mid-American Advanced Umpire Clinic was outstanding. However, I wonder if I would have felt the same way if it had not rained. I recommend that future clinics incorporate more consecutive innings for a proper evaluation, and dedicate more time for advanced instruction on the field and in the classroom. This weekend clinic is an excellent opportunity to learn advanced techniques from some of the best college umpires in the nation. That is the real value of the clinic.

Fair or Foul?

This is the best umpire clinic I have attended. The staff and facilities were excellent. The clinic is highly specialized and focused on the three man system for college baseball. Everything that was discussed was relevant and important to improving my ability to work college baseball games. I call the Mid-American Advanced Umpire Clinic absolutely FAIR!

Review of New Balance MU450MK Plate Shoe

Earlier this year New Balance announced that it wrestled the MLB umpire footwear contract away from Reebok. New Balance supplied plate shoes to MLB umpires during 2011, and are gearing up to introduce a new umpire plate shoe, the MU460, available next month. The MU450 plate shoe is being discontinued.

So why in the world is Midwest Ump doing a review of the MU450?

Can you say “CLEARANCE SALE?” Late fall is the perfect time to purchase umpire gear at a discount.

Appearance

The New Balance MU450MK umpire plate shoe is a terrific shoe. It has a leather upper which takes a shine very well. There is a tragic flaw with this shoe: the universally despised “N” logo on the side. Some umpires black this logo out with paint or shoe polish. To its credit New Balance offers a blacked out version with the new MU460 umpire plate shoe, so the company is listening to its customers.

The metatarsal plate is steel, as is the toe box. Some umpire plate shoes use a composite material that may or may not hold up under impact. You can be assured that the New Balance will protect your feet.

The sole of the MU450 is not cleated, but it has what New Balance calls a “multi-direction traction sole.” Like my sister used to say back in 1984, “Whateva.” That just means that the sole will not cake up with mud.

Fit / Comfort

The fit for the 450 runs a little small in length and width. Usually going up a half size creates a good fit. Plate shoes will conform to your feet somewhat, but it will not expand like other tennis shoes because of the steel reinforcements.  The 450 is offered in D, EE, and EEE widths, and up to a size 14.

The New Balance MU450 is made with Abzorb in the heel and forefoot provides shock absorption and cushioning. Abzorb is “a blend of Dupont™ Engage® and Isoprene rubber.” It is a very comfortable shoe and fits like a sneaker.

The New Balance is also fairly light weight at 27 ounces each. The Reebok Field Magistrate is 25.5 ounces each and the new MU460 is reported to be around 25 ounces.

Price

Since this shoe is being discontinued, there are some opportunities for good bargains. The MSRP on this shoe is $109.00. Currently you can purchase the MU450 for considerably less:

Lester’s Upstate Sports - $85 on sale

Ump-Attire - $99.99

 

Fair or Foul?

The New Balance MU450MK have been an umpire standard for many years at all levels. Here’s a picture of MLB umpire Jim Wolf rockin’ a pair.

The 450s are comfortable and light; they offer amazing protection; and once you take a deep cleansing breath, they are not bad looking. Now they are available at a considerable discount, which is far cheaper than the Reebok Field Magistrates or the New Balance MU460s. I call that kind of deal FAIR!

Review of Diamond DCP-iX3 CXTU Chest Protector

Here in "Missoura," the high school baseball season is in the spring and the softball season is in the fall. My umpiring season starts in late February with college baseball, then high school baseball begins, summer baseball, and finally fall college baseball and high school softball. My season ends in late October.

I have used the same chest protector for both sports, although I readily acknowledge that my baseball protector is overkill for softball. I have looked on and off over the years for a CP that I could use for softball. Enter Diamond’s new DCP-iX3 CXTU chest protector.

The Diamond DCP-iX3 CXTU is the second soft shell chest protector Midwest Ump has reviewed. What exactly is the difference between a soft shell and a hard shell chest protector?

The typical design of a hard shell chest protector is a combination of large plastic plates over foam and wrapped in a cloth material (usually polyester). The plastic plates deflect the energy of a ball impact, while the foam padding is mainly used for comfort.

A soft shell chest protectors come in two types: with or without plastic plates. Those with plates wrap smaller plastic plates and absorbing foam in a fabric (usually polyester). Since the foam material is used for energy absorption in a soft shell configuration, it is usually thicker than the foam in a hard shell. However, soft shell protectors are usually lighter and cooler than hard shells.

The difference in protection when comparing soft and hard shell protectors usually comes down to size and placement of the plastic plates, which are used to deflect a ball’s energy.

Appearance

The Diamond DCP-iX3 CXTU has a very unique appearance. The collar plates are very large, while the breast plate area is smaller than average. To look at this chest protector, you would think that it is very bulky, but that’s not the case. It is actually very low profile and fits close to the body.

The CXTU measures 1-1/8" thick at the collar and breast plate. That is very average for a hard shell chest protector, and sleek for a soft shell. Diamond places two removable pads at the deltoids. These pads measure 3/8” and are apparently intended as gap coverage.

The CXTU is 18.5" wide at the shoulders without the shoulder caps. To give you a frame of reference, the Schutt AiR Flex CP is 23" across. The shoulder caps add an additional 10.5", making it a whopping 29" wide. I remove the shoulder caps when wearing this CP as they are too wide for me (and I wear a 48R jacket!). In fact, there are several removable parts to the CXTU: an extension at the bottom of the CP; shoulder caps; deltoid pads; and lats pads ( Latissimus Dorsi). Below is a movie of the amazing shrinking Diamond DCP-iX3 CXTU!

  

Comfort

With all padding and extensions attached, the CXTU is a very light two pounds, seven ounces – lighter than any hard shell protector tested, and one ounce heavier than the Honig’s K1. Stripped down without extension and should caps, the CXTU weighs less than two pounds (1 pound, 9 ounces)! 

The CXTU is shaped to conform to your shoulder and neck area. The material is also very breathable. It is a very comfortable chest protector.

Protection

The neck area is very roomy and has gaps that a foul ball could penetrate. This is troublesome for a baseball umpire, but the gaps are not wide enough for a softball. The neck opening is protected by an adjustable cloth and padding only. Again, problematic for baseball, but fine for softball.

Diamond advertises a 10” body (measured from the neck opening to the bottom of the protector). That is being generous, as my measurement was 9.5”.  I am 5’10”, with a longer torso, and the 9.5” covers my rib cage. I measured the overall length with the extension at 13.5". There are no plastic plates in the extension.

What's the problem? I'm agile - like a cat!

Everyone is different, but here are my thoughts on abdominal protection. First, none of my chest protectors completely cover my tummy. No, not because my stomach is soooo big (like the dude at right), but CPs are all around 13-15" long, so there is always some gap. Second, while most foul balls will hurt my stomach, there are no bones to break. Third, covering my stomach creates greater insulation, which is not a good thing when it's hot out. Finally, I only get hit in the stomach on very rare occasions, and, for me, the additional protection does not generally offset the comfort benefits. The one time I want the added abdominal protection is when the pitching will be over 90 mph.

Pricing

Home Run Monkey - $89.99 + $6.99 ground shipping

Baseball Plus Store - $84.99 [free shipping on orders over $99]

Fair or Foul?

This chest protector should be renamed the CXTU-V, for “versatile.” I highly recommend this protector for softball, and my call is Fair! for softball use. It offers much more protection than the Honig’s K2 softball protector. It is also feather lite and breathable. I have been very, very happy with the Diamond DCP-iX3 CXTU chest protector during the softball season.

The CXTU is also fantastic for the smaller umpire, because it is so adjustable and customizable. A short umpire can remove the extension and have adequate rib cage protection. A slim umpire can remove the shoulder caps and have sufficient protection. I strip this CP down completely for softball use and I LOVE IT!

Because of the gap opening and inadequate protection around the neck, I cannot recommend this protector for baseball use. My call is Foul! for baseball use. My recommendation to Diamond is to reduce the size of the neck opening and insert a plastic plate into the neck pad. I understand the attraction of the adjustable neck opening, but the protection around the neck and clavicle in this current configuration is not sufficient for any level of baseball officiating. In the meantime, the CXTU is terrific for softball.

Review of the Wendelstedt Umpire School Rules and Interpretations Manual

Every rec coach and high school baseball player believes he knows the rules of baseball. Heck, even the casual baseball fan thinks he knows the rules. For red-blooded American males (and some females), its like baseball is part of our DNA - we know the rules instinctively.

Well, umpires know differently. We know that the baseball rules are far more complex than the plain meaning of the rulebook. Baseball rules are made up of the printed rules, interpretation, and tradition. Understanding and correctly applying the rules of baseball is quite complex. For instance, did you know that the professional rules require the ball to be pitched within 12 seconds when the bases are unoccupied? That’s Rule 8.04, but don’t feel bad if you didn’t know it. That rule and many others like it are largely ignored or only selectively applied.

So how do you know “the real rules” of baseball? You study. . . a lot.

The Official Rules of Baseball (OBR) is a convoluted mess. It is poorly organized and in many cases vague. Reading the OBR is like reading Moby Dick – it will give you a brain freeze. Consequently, there are several secondary resources on the market for amateur and professional umpires. These books present the rules of baseball in a more systematic and organized manner. One of these books is the Wendelstedt Umpire School Rules and Interpretations Manual, or the Wendelstedt Umpire Manual (WUM).

The WUM is “A Complete Annotated Rewrite,” which means that its supposed to make sense of the rules. The WUM succeeds on this point and baseball rules are presented in a straightforward, no-nonsense manner.

While the interpretation and explanation of the rules is first-rate, the organization of the manual is challenging. Its layout follows the progression of the Wendelstedt Umpire School five week course, which does not make the manual conducive to quick reference.

Harry Wendelstedt makes suggestions as ‘Harry’s Hints” for certain rules. These suggestions are sprinkled throughout the book. Cites from MLBUM and PBUC are also used, when appropriate. Reference Plays put the rules into a scenario for further study. One of the best features of the manual is the historical references. The WUM explains the genesis of some of the rules, which enhances understanding of its purpose and place in the rulebook.

The WUM contains some OBR rules that are reprinted in a small font that is tough to read. I speculate that the smaller font is used to set the rule apart from the rest of the book, and also to save printing space. For umpires over 40 (like this writer), the smaller font is a nuisance.

There are A LOT of errors in the WUM. I can appreciate grammatical errors, sh*t happens all the time on this blog. However, there are A LOT of errors (A LOT). Even the cover of the WUM contains errors:

“Our staff includes some of the most experienced MLB umpires in baseball.”

“Our students routinely receives higher placement in professional baseball. . .”

These errors are pervasive throughout the book (e.g. “When the ball goes out of play, the umpire should call time and the runners be awarded their bases.”) These typos distract from the content and undermine the authoritative nature of the book. Maybe it is unfair to hold an umpire manual to the same standard as a book mass-produced for the general public and professionally edited. Unfortunately, as an umpire (howbeit “amateur umpire”) I know that appearances matter. When I present myself to the world as an umpire, my shoes are shined, my uniform is neat and clean, my hat does not show sweat stains. . . This book is full of sweat stains and seems hastily prepared, which calls into question the thoroughness and accuracy of its interpretations.

The regular advertised price of the WUM is $54.99 + tax and shipping. That is considerably steeper than a competitor resource, the Jaksa/Roder Manual, which sells for $39.99 plus shipping.

FAIR or FOUL?

I’m calling this one FAIR because the WUM is one of the very few authoritative secondary resources for umpires. If you get the opportunity to buy this manual, I recommend getting it and reading it cover to cover.

However, while the content of the manual is good, the organization of the WUM is not. The higher price tag and lack of editing makes this manual a disappointment.