Well, we got home last night and this morning I woke up and went to work - what a difference a day can make. We had an awesome week at Jr Regional. Some of the crew went on to watch the LL Regional at San Bernadino - but most of us are back at work.
I have many pictures of the last couple days - my wife, Marilyn flew in for the semi-finals and final, and was busy taking pictures of the last 2 days.
I have added those pictures to my facebook page - you can find them at
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=26945&id=1555358790&l=4d9c0c9e98
Enjoy the pics, and when i see you in person, i'll probably have many more stories to tell.
This will be my last post from Jr League Western Region 2009
Tom
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Well, it's all over, even the shouting
Yep, the Tournament is over - and Arizona is heading to Taylor, Michigan for the Junior World Series. Maybe someday I'll be headed there too, but for now, I'm headed home and back to a dose of reality.
The game was extremely well played - Arizona's pitching and defense were too much for Hawaii, and in the end it was a couple mistakes by Hawaii's defense that made the difference in the game. There were no issues in the game; no close calls - oh, a couple bangers here and there - but mostly because the crew wanted to do something in the final. The only call I had was in the 6th inning when AZ tried to steal third, and was out by 2 or 3 feet. Kevin called a great game behind the dish, and it was all over in less than 2 hours.
I have some pictures of the game and the crew that I'll post in a couple days - when I'm back home and can transfer pictures from the camera to my laptop. Marilyn came down for the last 2 days, camera in hand.
And then, it was over. The crew went out for a bite and a pint after the game; rehashed some of the fun and exciting moments of the tournament; and then said our good-byes. Some of us will do games together again in the near future - some of us may see each other at future tournaments. But we will all remember our time together in Aliso Viejo at the 2009 Junior League Western Regional.
The tournament hosts - Aliso Viejo LL and the staff of D55 did an outstanding job. I have been talking to Jenice (D12 DA) about the possibility of having D12 host the tournament the next 2 years. She was here helping Tamara (the D55 DA) and found out a lot about what it takes to host a tournament of this size and nature. I think we would do a great job - she just needs a league in the district to step up and want to do it.
One of the fascinating side shows of the tournament is the pin exchange and trading. I have never been aware of the amount of interest in trading and collecting LL pins, but, boy, was I in the middle of it here. I just looked over the pins that I was given during the tournament and I now have a collection that spans all 10 states and many many districts and leagues. Marilyn's going to help me build a home for all of these pins, and the others that I have amassed over the years. Who knows, maybe someday you'll see me out there trading with the others - but don't hold your breath.
And now, all I have left are the memories - but they are wonderful memories. This was an amazing adventure, and I enjoyed every step along the way. A couple of us were talking after the first day how much it meant to be here, and how much we wanted to savor the moments - because we knew that it would be over way too quickly. We were right - it seems like just yesterday when we first met and found out who was on our team. Now, 9 days and 33 games later, we have learned so much. We have become better umpires. And, we have become friends along the way.
To my fellow regional umpires, I say - Great Job all! It was an honor and a privilege being on the field with you. See you again at a game soon.
The game was extremely well played - Arizona's pitching and defense were too much for Hawaii, and in the end it was a couple mistakes by Hawaii's defense that made the difference in the game. There were no issues in the game; no close calls - oh, a couple bangers here and there - but mostly because the crew wanted to do something in the final. The only call I had was in the 6th inning when AZ tried to steal third, and was out by 2 or 3 feet. Kevin called a great game behind the dish, and it was all over in less than 2 hours.
I have some pictures of the game and the crew that I'll post in a couple days - when I'm back home and can transfer pictures from the camera to my laptop. Marilyn came down for the last 2 days, camera in hand.
And then, it was over. The crew went out for a bite and a pint after the game; rehashed some of the fun and exciting moments of the tournament; and then said our good-byes. Some of us will do games together again in the near future - some of us may see each other at future tournaments. But we will all remember our time together in Aliso Viejo at the 2009 Junior League Western Regional.
The tournament hosts - Aliso Viejo LL and the staff of D55 did an outstanding job. I have been talking to Jenice (D12 DA) about the possibility of having D12 host the tournament the next 2 years. She was here helping Tamara (the D55 DA) and found out a lot about what it takes to host a tournament of this size and nature. I think we would do a great job - she just needs a league in the district to step up and want to do it.
One of the fascinating side shows of the tournament is the pin exchange and trading. I have never been aware of the amount of interest in trading and collecting LL pins, but, boy, was I in the middle of it here. I just looked over the pins that I was given during the tournament and I now have a collection that spans all 10 states and many many districts and leagues. Marilyn's going to help me build a home for all of these pins, and the others that I have amassed over the years. Who knows, maybe someday you'll see me out there trading with the others - but don't hold your breath.
And now, all I have left are the memories - but they are wonderful memories. This was an amazing adventure, and I enjoyed every step along the way. A couple of us were talking after the first day how much it meant to be here, and how much we wanted to savor the moments - because we knew that it would be over way too quickly. We were right - it seems like just yesterday when we first met and found out who was on our team. Now, 9 days and 33 games later, we have learned so much. We have become better umpires. And, we have become friends along the way.
To my fellow regional umpires, I say - Great Job all! It was an honor and a privilege being on the field with you. See you again at a game soon.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Who's on Third?
Well, the semi-finals are over. Hawaii beat up on Washington, winning 12-2 in 5 innings. Arizona did the same to So Cal, winning 13-3 in 6 innings. So, the final is Hawaii vs Arizona - in my opinion, the 2 best teams in the tournament. So now we know who is playing the finals.
We also found out last night who has which umpire assignment for the final. Kevin, deservedly, got the plate assignment - kudos for him!!!! Paul is on 1st, Glenn on 2nd and I've got 3rd. The other 4 on the crew, Rob, Frank, Bob and Rita will share the lines, with Rob and Frank taking the first 3 1/2 innings and Bob and Rita finishing up the game. It should be a great game - with good pitching, defense and offense on both teams.
The games today were, as the scores show, pretty lopsided. Nothing specific jumps out, except that Hawaii, for the second time in the tournament, hit the first pitch of the first inning out of the park. Both HI and AZ hit a couple dingers in their games. WA and So Cal did their best to stay in the games, but were really outclassed.
I'll have another entry after the game tonight, but I might forget to say something that is very important in this story. There are several people I want to thank, for their support in getting me ready for the Regionals. Dan Campagnolo, Larry Gomez, Ralph Giannini and John Hoppin - the D12 umpire 'staff' have been incredible in their support for me as I prepared for this assignment. They have critiqued my work, helped me get ready for the rigors of the tournament, and even shot photos and videos of my earlier games to show me how I could improve. I want to thank them for all of the help, advice, and assistance they gave me during the tournament season this year. Guys - I hope I did you proud.
There is also another person who deserves a very special thanks - and that is my wife, Marilyn. When I found out in late 2008 that I had been selected for Regionals, she told me that whatever I needed to do to get ready - she would stand by me and support me. I have done more games this year than I ever have in the past. There were weeks when we seldom saw each other except late at night after a game or early morning. Normally our spring and summer weekends include a lot of whitewater rafting, but this year she put our life on hold so that I could follow my dream and have an incredible experience at Regionals. She came down these past 2 days to watch me and support me at the games. For all this, and much much more - I want to thank her...for being her and for supporting me always.
We also found out last night who has which umpire assignment for the final. Kevin, deservedly, got the plate assignment - kudos for him!!!! Paul is on 1st, Glenn on 2nd and I've got 3rd. The other 4 on the crew, Rob, Frank, Bob and Rita will share the lines, with Rob and Frank taking the first 3 1/2 innings and Bob and Rita finishing up the game. It should be a great game - with good pitching, defense and offense on both teams.
The games today were, as the scores show, pretty lopsided. Nothing specific jumps out, except that Hawaii, for the second time in the tournament, hit the first pitch of the first inning out of the park. Both HI and AZ hit a couple dingers in their games. WA and So Cal did their best to stay in the games, but were really outclassed.
I'll have another entry after the game tonight, but I might forget to say something that is very important in this story. There are several people I want to thank, for their support in getting me ready for the Regionals. Dan Campagnolo, Larry Gomez, Ralph Giannini and John Hoppin - the D12 umpire 'staff' have been incredible in their support for me as I prepared for this assignment. They have critiqued my work, helped me get ready for the rigors of the tournament, and even shot photos and videos of my earlier games to show me how I could improve. I want to thank them for all of the help, advice, and assistance they gave me during the tournament season this year. Guys - I hope I did you proud.
There is also another person who deserves a very special thanks - and that is my wife, Marilyn. When I found out in late 2008 that I had been selected for Regionals, she told me that whatever I needed to do to get ready - she would stand by me and support me. I have done more games this year than I ever have in the past. There were weeks when we seldom saw each other except late at night after a game or early morning. Normally our spring and summer weekends include a lot of whitewater rafting, but this year she put our life on hold so that I could follow my dream and have an incredible experience at Regionals. She came down these past 2 days to watch me and support me at the games. For all this, and much much more - I want to thank her...for being her and for supporting me always.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Da y 5 - Twists and Turns and Finally - the Semi-Finals
We had 5 games lined up out of the 6 that had a bearing on which teams would make the semi-finals. No Cal looked like a lock after they beat Hawaii on day 4, but the tie breaker rules were set up in such a way that no one could be certain.
Arizona was the only team that looked like a sure thing, and sure enough, they handled Alaska and claimed the top spot in Pool 2. Pool 1 ended in a 3 way tie after So Cal blew away No Cal 11-0. This meant that the tiebreaker rules were put into effect - the team with the lowest runs allowed per inning would take the top spot. Hawaii claimed that after holding Nevada to 2 runs. Once Hawaii had the top spot, it came down to head to head between No Cal and So Cal - with So Cal taking the second spot. In Pool 2, there was a 3 way tie for 2nd between Alaska, the Host Laguna Niguel and Washington. Once again the runs allowed per inning was calculated and WA came out the winner.
I was on the dish for the final game between ID and OR - the only game not affecting the semis, but when it was time to do the runs allowed calculation, the TD needed the scorebook for our game. So between innings, I get called over the scorer's booth and was told to delay the game. I asked why, and they said they needed to calculate runs allowed for the other Pool. I was a little confused as to why they needed to delay our game to calculate the other scores, until they told me about the scorebook. Of course, the rest of my crew had no idea what was going on, all they saw was that I was taking my sweet time getting the game going. I gave the pitcher extra throws; I strolled to the plate to clean it off; I gave it the best dusting it had had all day; I went back to the scorer's booth; I came back and cleaned off the plate - again. I told the catcher and batter that we were in a TV Timeout@! Finally I got the go ahead and looked up at my 3 crewmates - and saw daggers flying back at me - after all, this was the last game of the preliminaries; it was 7:30 at night; and all that was standing between them and a cold one was me getting the game over.
We did have some interesting plays during the day. For example, in one inning of the NV-HI game, we got 3 outs with only 1 fielder touching the ball - and it wasn't a triple play. Now granted, there were three separate plays - but still - on only one of them did a fielder touch the ball. You might ask how this could be....well...simple....
Play 1 - runner on first; ball hit between 1st and 2nd; ball hits runner in the foot - out 1
Play 2 - some other play that recorded an out - not relevant
Play 3 - bases loaded; 3rd base in on the grass; Shortstop back; ball hit between short and 3rd - gets past the 3rd baseman ... and hits runner in the chest as the shortstop goes to make the play - out 3
If anyone has ever had 2 runner interference plays in the same inning - well...you're not alone anymore.
So, after 5 days and 30 games, we have our 4 semi-finalists. The umpire crew is taking the day off - we've done 15 games each over 5 days. For the most part, everyone seems to be holding up ok. After the first day and getting used to the heat, even our brethren from the cold northwest seem to managing fine. There are the usual nicks and bruises - the best is a shot that Paul from D55 took to the arm. His right arm is various stages of blue, purple, red, and black - from his wrist to his elbow. Other than that - we're all in one piece.
Semi-final assignments were handed out - the plates went to Glenn from WA D3 (between AZ and So Cal) and Paul from CA D55 (between HI and WA). Kevin and I are still in the running for the plate on the championship game - we'll find out who gets that after the semi-finals on Monday.
Arizona was the only team that looked like a sure thing, and sure enough, they handled Alaska and claimed the top spot in Pool 2. Pool 1 ended in a 3 way tie after So Cal blew away No Cal 11-0. This meant that the tiebreaker rules were put into effect - the team with the lowest runs allowed per inning would take the top spot. Hawaii claimed that after holding Nevada to 2 runs. Once Hawaii had the top spot, it came down to head to head between No Cal and So Cal - with So Cal taking the second spot. In Pool 2, there was a 3 way tie for 2nd between Alaska, the Host Laguna Niguel and Washington. Once again the runs allowed per inning was calculated and WA came out the winner.
I was on the dish for the final game between ID and OR - the only game not affecting the semis, but when it was time to do the runs allowed calculation, the TD needed the scorebook for our game. So between innings, I get called over the scorer's booth and was told to delay the game. I asked why, and they said they needed to calculate runs allowed for the other Pool. I was a little confused as to why they needed to delay our game to calculate the other scores, until they told me about the scorebook. Of course, the rest of my crew had no idea what was going on, all they saw was that I was taking my sweet time getting the game going. I gave the pitcher extra throws; I strolled to the plate to clean it off; I gave it the best dusting it had had all day; I went back to the scorer's booth; I came back and cleaned off the plate - again. I told the catcher and batter that we were in a TV Timeout@! Finally I got the go ahead and looked up at my 3 crewmates - and saw daggers flying back at me - after all, this was the last game of the preliminaries; it was 7:30 at night; and all that was standing between them and a cold one was me getting the game over.
We did have some interesting plays during the day. For example, in one inning of the NV-HI game, we got 3 outs with only 1 fielder touching the ball - and it wasn't a triple play. Now granted, there were three separate plays - but still - on only one of them did a fielder touch the ball. You might ask how this could be....well...simple....
Play 1 - runner on first; ball hit between 1st and 2nd; ball hits runner in the foot - out 1
Play 2 - some other play that recorded an out - not relevant
Play 3 - bases loaded; 3rd base in on the grass; Shortstop back; ball hit between short and 3rd - gets past the 3rd baseman ... and hits runner in the chest as the shortstop goes to make the play - out 3
If anyone has ever had 2 runner interference plays in the same inning - well...you're not alone anymore.
So, after 5 days and 30 games, we have our 4 semi-finalists. The umpire crew is taking the day off - we've done 15 games each over 5 days. For the most part, everyone seems to be holding up ok. After the first day and getting used to the heat, even our brethren from the cold northwest seem to managing fine. There are the usual nicks and bruises - the best is a shot that Paul from D55 took to the arm. His right arm is various stages of blue, purple, red, and black - from his wrist to his elbow. Other than that - we're all in one piece.
Semi-final assignments were handed out - the plates went to Glenn from WA D3 (between AZ and So Cal) and Paul from CA D55 (between HI and WA). Kevin and I are still in the running for the plate on the championship game - we'll find out who gets that after the semi-finals on Monday.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Day 4 - The Ball Was FLYING; The Tournament is Still up for Grabs
On Friday, I moved to Woodfield Park with its 300' fence, and the ball started flying. We had 2 homers in the first 3 days - we had 6 in one game (plus 2 ground rule doubles). Then in the last game we had another 2 or 3. We also encountered our first potential protest (although there had been one in another game the night before). Here's what happened.
Bases loaded and the batter hits a slow roller past the mound toward the 2nd baseman. The Pitcher tries for the ball and misses. The ball and the runner from first arrive at the 2nd baseman at the same time, and the 2nd baseman is interfered with as he tries to make the play. Kevin quickly calls interference and calls the runner out. Of course, it is the 3rd out, so the teams leave the field - as the offensive manager comes running out to protest the call. His contention - since the ball passed the first fielder (the pitcher), there can be no interference. After conferring with the team, and then talking to the TD, it is finally ruled (much to the frustration of the coach) that the call stands - there was interference - there is no rule that says there can't be interference just because the ball passes a fielder. Good call Kevin!
Other than that play, we had 3 decent games - with just a few blown rotation or mechanic issues from the crew. The 8 of us met with our evaluators after the last game. We went over some of the common issues that had come up - discussed different situations - but mostly talked about how much we had progressed as umpires in the past 4 days. I guess doing 12 games in 4 days gives you an opportunity to experience many of the situations that might take a whole season to come up. We talked about how much we had learned and how much we had started critiquing ourselves - before the evaluators ever opened their mouths - in many cases, we're doing that during the games...and trying not to kick ourselves too much for blown assignments.
We got our assignments for Saturday - they have mixed us up a bit. Of the 6 games on Saturday, 5 of them have some potential for affecting the teams that will go onto the semifinals and championship round.
Right now No Cal is in the driver's seat in Pool 1 - they beat Hawaii today 7-2. Arizona is the only undefeated team in Pool 2. Both teams have tough games tomorrow - No Cal plays So Cal (who is trying to get the 2nd seed), and Arizona plays Alaska which is trying to hold on to the 2nd seed. Other teams still in the hunt include Hawaii and Nevada in Pool 1, and Washington and the host team (Laguna Niguel) in Pool 2.
After all the games are completed, we'll find out who is scheduled as crew for the semis and the finals. We all would love to get the choice assignments, but I think I speak for all of us when I say that we are just honored to be here and will be thrilled with whatever assignments come our way for the championship rounds.
Bases loaded and the batter hits a slow roller past the mound toward the 2nd baseman. The Pitcher tries for the ball and misses. The ball and the runner from first arrive at the 2nd baseman at the same time, and the 2nd baseman is interfered with as he tries to make the play. Kevin quickly calls interference and calls the runner out. Of course, it is the 3rd out, so the teams leave the field - as the offensive manager comes running out to protest the call. His contention - since the ball passed the first fielder (the pitcher), there can be no interference. After conferring with the team, and then talking to the TD, it is finally ruled (much to the frustration of the coach) that the call stands - there was interference - there is no rule that says there can't be interference just because the ball passes a fielder. Good call Kevin!
Other than that play, we had 3 decent games - with just a few blown rotation or mechanic issues from the crew. The 8 of us met with our evaluators after the last game. We went over some of the common issues that had come up - discussed different situations - but mostly talked about how much we had progressed as umpires in the past 4 days. I guess doing 12 games in 4 days gives you an opportunity to experience many of the situations that might take a whole season to come up. We talked about how much we had learned and how much we had started critiquing ourselves - before the evaluators ever opened their mouths - in many cases, we're doing that during the games...and trying not to kick ourselves too much for blown assignments.
We got our assignments for Saturday - they have mixed us up a bit. Of the 6 games on Saturday, 5 of them have some potential for affecting the teams that will go onto the semifinals and championship round.
Right now No Cal is in the driver's seat in Pool 1 - they beat Hawaii today 7-2. Arizona is the only undefeated team in Pool 2. Both teams have tough games tomorrow - No Cal plays So Cal (who is trying to get the 2nd seed), and Arizona plays Alaska which is trying to hold on to the 2nd seed. Other teams still in the hunt include Hawaii and Nevada in Pool 1, and Washington and the host team (Laguna Niguel) in Pool 2.
After all the games are completed, we'll find out who is scheduled as crew for the semis and the finals. We all would love to get the choice assignments, but I think I speak for all of us when I say that we are just honored to be here and will be thrilled with whatever assignments come our way for the championship rounds.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
What it Means to be a Regional LL Umpire
I've now been at Jr Regional for 4 days. When I got here, I knew two other people- Kevin from D54 and Rob from D14. I have now worked games with 6 of the 7 other umpires - there is only 1 that I have not worked with yet.
What I can say is how much of an honor we all feel it is to be here. I feel very privileged to represent CA D12 at this tournament. I have been trained and mentored by some of the best umpires in the region at D12 for the past 16 years, and at D54 for the past 4 - and I can tell you all that we have some of the best trainers around. I feel like I have been preparing for this week for the past 16 years...and also for the past 8 months (since I found out I was selected)...and for the past 6 weeks - working in tournaments around northern California at the League, District, Section and Division levels - all ages from 10 year old to Big League.
We have an incredible crew here - umpires from across the west coast. We got here by different routes, with different experiences, but with a common love of baseball and Little League. We are supported by an amazing group of folks from Aliso Viejo LL and D55. They have worked hard to make sure we were taken care of, that we have enough water, food and rest (when possible).
All of this so that the 150 kids on the 12 teams have an invaluable experience at their Jr Regional Tournament. For most of these kids, this will be the apex of their baseball experience. Sure, some will go onto high school ball, and some will play in college. But for many of them, they may never again experience the excitement of a tournament at this level. To be able to help make that a memorable time in their lives is just amazing. We have had players come up to us between games and thank us; the Laguna Niguel (the host team team from D55) team comes up to the crew during introductions and shakes hands with us - just to let us know that they know what it takes to get here as an umpire; and, we talk to the kids during the game to find out more about them and their teams...and they get to know more about us.
The tournament is about 1/2 over, but already I can safely say that it has been an incredible time for all of us on the crew.
What I can say is how much of an honor we all feel it is to be here. I feel very privileged to represent CA D12 at this tournament. I have been trained and mentored by some of the best umpires in the region at D12 for the past 16 years, and at D54 for the past 4 - and I can tell you all that we have some of the best trainers around. I feel like I have been preparing for this week for the past 16 years...and also for the past 8 months (since I found out I was selected)...and for the past 6 weeks - working in tournaments around northern California at the League, District, Section and Division levels - all ages from 10 year old to Big League.
We have an incredible crew here - umpires from across the west coast. We got here by different routes, with different experiences, but with a common love of baseball and Little League. We are supported by an amazing group of folks from Aliso Viejo LL and D55. They have worked hard to make sure we were taken care of, that we have enough water, food and rest (when possible).
All of this so that the 150 kids on the 12 teams have an invaluable experience at their Jr Regional Tournament. For most of these kids, this will be the apex of their baseball experience. Sure, some will go onto high school ball, and some will play in college. But for many of them, they may never again experience the excitement of a tournament at this level. To be able to help make that a memorable time in their lives is just amazing. We have had players come up to us between games and thank us; the Laguna Niguel (the host team team from D55) team comes up to the crew during introductions and shakes hands with us - just to let us know that they know what it takes to get here as an umpire; and, we talk to the kids during the game to find out more about them and their teams...and they get to know more about us.
The tournament is about 1/2 over, but already I can safely say that it has been an incredible time for all of us on the crew.
Who's really working at this tournament
So, I finally figured out the tournament schedule (alright, I'm a bit slow and it took me three days to do this). Here is what I've figured out....
The teams have one game per day. It is at 10, 1, 4 or 7 (give or take). If they have the early game, they get up around 7 or 8, and get to the field by 9. They're done by 1 and have the rest of the day to play in southern california - go to the beach, to disneyland, to an Angels game, sit at the pool - whatever. If they have the 1 or 4 game, they lounge around in the morning or early afternoon - maybe go to the beach or hang out at the pool, then play a game, have dinner at the park, and party at night. If they have the late game, they've got all day to party, play a game, and then still party at night.
The umpires - well, that's a different story. We have 3 games a day - up at 7 or so - have breakfast and get to the field by 9. If we're not on the early game, we're probably still going to see how our partners are doing, and to watch some ball - 'cuz we're certainly not idly watching the games we're doing. We do 3 games - with maybe an hour in between if we're lucky to relax, have a sandwich or some pizza (whatever they happen to be serving), get some critique of our mechanics, and get back to it. If we don't have the late game, we still go over to the field for dinner and watch part of the game - getting back to our hotel rooms around 8-9, tired and ready for bed.
Not that I'm complaining - but I sure don't want to hear any complaints from the players about having to play 5 games in 5 days :)
The teams have one game per day. It is at 10, 1, 4 or 7 (give or take). If they have the early game, they get up around 7 or 8, and get to the field by 9. They're done by 1 and have the rest of the day to play in southern california - go to the beach, to disneyland, to an Angels game, sit at the pool - whatever. If they have the 1 or 4 game, they lounge around in the morning or early afternoon - maybe go to the beach or hang out at the pool, then play a game, have dinner at the park, and party at night. If they have the late game, they've got all day to party, play a game, and then still party at night.
The umpires - well, that's a different story. We have 3 games a day - up at 7 or so - have breakfast and get to the field by 9. If we're not on the early game, we're probably still going to see how our partners are doing, and to watch some ball - 'cuz we're certainly not idly watching the games we're doing. We do 3 games - with maybe an hour in between if we're lucky to relax, have a sandwich or some pizza (whatever they happen to be serving), get some critique of our mechanics, and get back to it. If we don't have the late game, we still go over to the field for dinner and watch part of the game - getting back to our hotel rooms around 8-9, tired and ready for bed.
Not that I'm complaining - but I sure don't want to hear any complaints from the players about having to play 5 games in 5 days :)
Day 3 - Some Strange Goings On - When is a runner not out when struck by a batted ball
Day 3 - full moon - things start to get a little controversial. The first episode came in our second game of the day - WA vs AZ. The game started out as one might expect from 2 teams that were 2-0. However, it quickly digressed as AZ started hitting the ball, and WA started throwing it everywhere but where they could get an out. A key play in the game occurred midway through the 4th inning (I think), when AZ hit a dying liner to right center field. The center fielder (who had recently been pulled from the mound - much to his dislike) took off after the ball and made a great play on the ball, only to have it roll out of his glove as he fell to the ground. To many of the fans, and at least one of the umpires (yours truly at 1st base), it looked like he had caught the ball. However, for at least one of the umpires - U2, who had the call - and several other fans - it was clear that the ball had indeed hit the ground. Our partner at 2nd base emphatically made a no-catch call and play resumed. When the play was over, the manager came out to complain, but was quickly returned to the dugout - and the play stood.
Another sticky situation occurred in the last game. We had runners on 2nd and 3rd. I was at 2nd, Kevin was at 3rd - i will keep the other names anonymous to protect the innocent. Batter hit a fly ball to left center, and Kevin took off. I kept my eyes on 2nd base - my responsibility in that situation is the tag at 2nd and any play at 3rd. The home plate umpire has tag up responsibility at 3rd. Well, sure enough, the catch is made, runner on 3rd tags up, and heads for home - safely. The pitcher gets the ball back and promptly throws to 3rd to appeal the tag. The 3rd baseman looks to Kevin for a call - but of course Kevin just looks to home. And that is when the 'fun' starts. The home plate umpire is looking at Kevin. We call time, get the 4 umps together and find out that no one was watching the tag up at 3rd. Oh shit@!@!@! What could we do - we call the runner safe and hope that there was not a blatant miss.
And finally - the answer to the question - when is a runner not out when struck by a batted ball - well of course the answer is after it has been touched by or has passed a fielder (7.08 f). There I was at 1st base, with runners all around, and the infield in. The batter hits the ball between the 1st baseman and 2nd baseman, and i'm looking for a play either at first or at home. But the ball deflects off the glove of the 1st baseman and strikes the runner going from 1st to 2nd - and proceeds to carom into right field. No harm no foul - but of course we do get the yells from the crowd that the runner should be out.
Another sticky situation occurred in the last game. We had runners on 2nd and 3rd. I was at 2nd, Kevin was at 3rd - i will keep the other names anonymous to protect the innocent. Batter hit a fly ball to left center, and Kevin took off. I kept my eyes on 2nd base - my responsibility in that situation is the tag at 2nd and any play at 3rd. The home plate umpire has tag up responsibility at 3rd. Well, sure enough, the catch is made, runner on 3rd tags up, and heads for home - safely. The pitcher gets the ball back and promptly throws to 3rd to appeal the tag. The 3rd baseman looks to Kevin for a call - but of course Kevin just looks to home. And that is when the 'fun' starts. The home plate umpire is looking at Kevin. We call time, get the 4 umps together and find out that no one was watching the tag up at 3rd. Oh shit@!@!@! What could we do - we call the runner safe and hope that there was not a blatant miss.
And finally - the answer to the question - when is a runner not out when struck by a batted ball - well of course the answer is after it has been touched by or has passed a fielder (7.08 f). There I was at 1st base, with runners all around, and the infield in. The batter hits the ball between the 1st baseman and 2nd baseman, and i'm looking for a play either at first or at home. But the ball deflects off the glove of the 1st baseman and strikes the runner going from 1st to 2nd - and proceeds to carom into right field. No harm no foul - but of course we do get the yells from the crowd that the runner should be out.
Where the games are
I've been meaning to show pictures of where the games are being played. There are 2 locations - the home of Alviso Viejo LL - at Woodfield park. This is a LL park - that's all that's there. They have 1 big field, 3 little fields and a T Ball field. They have batting cages and a decent snack shack - all shaded under trees of various sizes so you'll almost always be able to find shade somewhere. Here is a picture of the big field - where 1/2 the pool play is being held, and where the semis and championship games will be played. The games at this site are at 12:30, 3:30 and 6:30 - the lights really help make this a workable venue. Plus the fact that there is a lot of shade, so people are not roasting under the sun. The fence is 310 around the outfield. For those of you at the Nor Cal Division championship game, you might remember a couple of shots from WoodCreek that went to the fence at WG HS. At this field, they would have easily been out.
The other location is Alviso Viejo HS. This is located in a bowl, where the air is still, the sun is bright and the temperatures are high. There are a couple little stands, no shade and a long walk from the street to the field because they wouldn't unlock the gates for us. The games on this field are at 10, 1, and 4 - no lights. So it is a long hot day for the 4 umps on this field. The first day, we had one casualty - one of the umps never made it through the first game. We work real hard to keep these games moving and get them done in less than 2 hours - we've been pretty good so far. You might notice the high fence in right field - that is a 290 foot porch and a 25-30 foot high fence. We had one kid hit one out just to the left of the high fence - very well placed.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Day 2 - Another Hot Day - Baseball - not so good
Wednesday brought more heat, but the games were not quite as good. We were with the same crew as yesterday, and we did just as good a job as we did yesterday - what can I say, we're just a good crew. We were at Aliso Niguel High School, which is basically located in a giant bowl - below any chance of getting a breeze - needless to say, it was HOT.
Kevin had the dish for the first game - a 12-0 Hawaii win over Oregon in 4 1/2 innings. Kevin and I are sitting here trying to remember any memorable moments in the game - and we can't. there just weren't any big plays. It was just a lot of hitting by Hawaii, and nothing worth mentioning from Oregon.
I was on the plate for the second game - So Cal beat Idaho 7-4. Idaho has had two really good games, but have come up short in both of them. The game was humming along until the pitchers on both teams seemed to lose it in the 5th inning. I am sure the of the 2 1/2 hour game, 1 hour of it was in the 5th. Once again, no memorable plays, but finally, some controversy - well sort of. One team wanted to re-enter a starter and bring him in to pitch - but it turned out his sub had not had his minimum play. One of the Tournament Directors (who are there to catch things like this) noticed the problem, and caught it before we had a protest situation. We got past that, and finished up the game with no other biggies.
The last game between Nevada and No Cal found Kevin at 2nd, and me at 3rd. Kevin finally had some excitement - got himself a righteous balk call, and then nailed an interference call on a double play ball. No Cal won the game 9-3 to go to 2-0 in the pool play. It looks like the elite teams in Pool 1 Hawaii and No Cal - they play Fri morning. In the other pool, the 2-0 teams are Washington and Arizona, who play Thu at 1:00 - Kevin has the dish for that game - should be a good one.
Tomorrow we get a new pair of partners, who will be with us for the next two days. They are Rita Cline from WA and Bob Breihof from OR. They've had a couple tough games so far - try this on for size. The last game of the day today was between Arizona and Montana. At one point the game was in the first inning, Arizona had the bases loaded with no outs, and were leading 12-0 - Yes, you read that correctly... 1st inning, no outs, 12 runs in and based loaded. We left in the 3rd with the game at 18-3. Yikes!!!
Right now - a little relaxation, a cold beer and time to polish the shoes :)
Kevin had the dish for the first game - a 12-0 Hawaii win over Oregon in 4 1/2 innings. Kevin and I are sitting here trying to remember any memorable moments in the game - and we can't. there just weren't any big plays. It was just a lot of hitting by Hawaii, and nothing worth mentioning from Oregon.
I was on the plate for the second game - So Cal beat Idaho 7-4. Idaho has had two really good games, but have come up short in both of them. The game was humming along until the pitchers on both teams seemed to lose it in the 5th inning. I am sure the of the 2 1/2 hour game, 1 hour of it was in the 5th. Once again, no memorable plays, but finally, some controversy - well sort of. One team wanted to re-enter a starter and bring him in to pitch - but it turned out his sub had not had his minimum play. One of the Tournament Directors (who are there to catch things like this) noticed the problem, and caught it before we had a protest situation. We got past that, and finished up the game with no other biggies.
The last game between Nevada and No Cal found Kevin at 2nd, and me at 3rd. Kevin finally had some excitement - got himself a righteous balk call, and then nailed an interference call on a double play ball. No Cal won the game 9-3 to go to 2-0 in the pool play. It looks like the elite teams in Pool 1 Hawaii and No Cal - they play Fri morning. In the other pool, the 2-0 teams are Washington and Arizona, who play Thu at 1:00 - Kevin has the dish for that game - should be a good one.
Tomorrow we get a new pair of partners, who will be with us for the next two days. They are Rita Cline from WA and Bob Breihof from OR. They've had a couple tough games so far - try this on for size. The last game of the day today was between Arizona and Montana. At one point the game was in the first inning, Arizona had the bases loaded with no outs, and were leading 12-0 - Yes, you read that correctly... 1st inning, no outs, 12 runs in and based loaded. We left in the 3rd with the game at 18-3. Yikes!!!
Right now - a little relaxation, a cold beer and time to polish the shoes :)
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Day 1 - Hot day, good baseball
The first game of the tourney was at 10:00 on Tuesday. By 1:00, with the first game still not over, we had our first casualty - the umpire on the plate had to leave the game because of the heat. That crew finished out the day with the remaining 3 men in blue.
The first game for me and my partner Kevin (CA D54), was at 12:30. I had the plate, Kevin was at 1st, Glenn from WA D3 was at 2nd and Paul from CA55 was at 3rd. The game was Hawaii vs Southern Cal. We expected a good, well played game, but instead got a 6 inning Hawaii win. We were done in 1 hour, 40 minutes - a good way to beat the heat. The game was so smooth and clean that we had exactly 0 times when a coach or manager came close to questioning one of the crew!
The critique after the game centered on a couple missed rotations and a lot of good comments on timing, positioning and keeping the game moving.
Our next game was 3:30 between Nevada and Oregon. For this we had Kevin on the dish, Glenn at 1st, Paul at 2nd and me at 3rd. This game was a lot longer - 1 hour, 50 minutes. But it went the distance. Nevada pulled it out with 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th to win 6-5. Again, no strange goings on - we were once again critiqued on a couple missed rotations and a lot of good comments about how well we functioned as a crew given that we had done all of 2 games together.
Our last game of the day was 6:30 - Northern Cal vs Idaho. We had Paul on the dish, Glenn at 1st, me at 2nd, Kevin at 3rd.
This was preceded by opening day ceremonies, including the ceremonial first pitch by none other than Western Regional Director, Jim Gerstenslager.
We expected N.Cal to jump out to a big lead, but after 4 innings it was 4-3 Idaho. Idaho kept that lead until there were 2 outs in the top of the 7th, when N Cal took one deep to tie it up. They scored 1 in the top of the 8th, and held on for the win. The play of this game (well, maybe the bonehead play of the game) occurred in the bottom of the 8th, when the leadoff batter for Idaho walked, then proceeded to start to steal 2nd, and stop half way. As the ball was thrown into center field, he reversed directions, and stopped again - waiting long enough for the shortstop to track down the ball and throw him out going back to 1st. A bang bang play by Glenn at 1st.
Our evaluator during the day was Duane Cave (D55 UIC). He was very positive about our work during the day. We each picked up some pointers, but basically we got the job done, kept the games moving, and stayed out the way. As one of my mentors has said many times, we didn't affect the outcome of any of the games.
The first game for me and my partner Kevin (CA D54), was at 12:30. I had the plate, Kevin was at 1st, Glenn from WA D3 was at 2nd and Paul from CA55 was at 3rd. The game was Hawaii vs Southern Cal. We expected a good, well played game, but instead got a 6 inning Hawaii win. We were done in 1 hour, 40 minutes - a good way to beat the heat. The game was so smooth and clean that we had exactly 0 times when a coach or manager came close to questioning one of the crew!
The critique after the game centered on a couple missed rotations and a lot of good comments on timing, positioning and keeping the game moving.
Our next game was 3:30 between Nevada and Oregon. For this we had Kevin on the dish, Glenn at 1st, Paul at 2nd and me at 3rd. This game was a lot longer - 1 hour, 50 minutes. But it went the distance. Nevada pulled it out with 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th to win 6-5. Again, no strange goings on - we were once again critiqued on a couple missed rotations and a lot of good comments about how well we functioned as a crew given that we had done all of 2 games together.
Our last game of the day was 6:30 - Northern Cal vs Idaho. We had Paul on the dish, Glenn at 1st, me at 2nd, Kevin at 3rd.
This was preceded by opening day ceremonies, including the ceremonial first pitch by none other than Western Regional Director, Jim Gerstenslager.
We expected N.Cal to jump out to a big lead, but after 4 innings it was 4-3 Idaho. Idaho kept that lead until there were 2 outs in the top of the 7th, when N Cal took one deep to tie it up. They scored 1 in the top of the 8th, and held on for the win. The play of this game (well, maybe the bonehead play of the game) occurred in the bottom of the 8th, when the leadoff batter for Idaho walked, then proceeded to start to steal 2nd, and stop half way. As the ball was thrown into center field, he reversed directions, and stopped again - waiting long enough for the shortstop to track down the ball and throw him out going back to 1st. A bang bang play by Glenn at 1st.
Our evaluator during the day was Duane Cave (D55 UIC). He was very positive about our work during the day. We each picked up some pointers, but basically we got the job done, kept the games moving, and stayed out the way. As one of my mentors has said many times, we didn't affect the outcome of any of the games.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Done with the Meetings - let's play some ball
OK - so the meetings are over. Everyone's been introduced. Now it's time to play ball.
There are 6 games each day - 3 on each field. On one field the games are at 10, 1, and 4. At the other field they are at 12:30, 3:30, 6:30. I have the plate for the 12:30 game on Tuesday - between So Cal and Hawaii - should be a good game.
I'm matched with Kevin Swinhart from D54 for the first 4 days - and then the two of us will be hooked up with other pairs of umpires each day. Who knows what happens on Saturday - maybe they'll just pick us out of a hat. The other umps are from CA District 14, 55, and 68. One from Oregon and 2 from Washington - D3 and D11. All in all - looks like a good crew.
Tomorrow the fun starts.
There are 6 games each day - 3 on each field. On one field the games are at 10, 1, and 4. At the other field they are at 12:30, 3:30, 6:30. I have the plate for the 12:30 game on Tuesday - between So Cal and Hawaii - should be a good game.
I'm matched with Kevin Swinhart from D54 for the first 4 days - and then the two of us will be hooked up with other pairs of umpires each day. Who knows what happens on Saturday - maybe they'll just pick us out of a hat. The other umps are from CA District 14, 55, and 68. One from Oregon and 2 from Washington - D3 and D11. All in all - looks like a good crew.
Tomorrow the fun starts.
Day Before the Tourney
Just arrived in sunny southern california for the Western regional Junior Little League tournament. There is a buzz at the hotel as teams from around the west coast come in and get settled. I asked the clerk what it was like to have 200 14 year olds running around - and he said with a smile that it was his week off.
This is the culmination of years of work for 8 select umpires. We represent districts from Southern California, Northern California, Oregon and Washington. Together we have over 100 years of LL umpire experience, including 2 who have umpired in the Major LL Regional in San Bernadino.
My path to this tourney started in Willow Glen in 1989 when my son was 6 years old. When he was 10, I was asked to umpire, and I never looked back. I have umpired many games over the years, and always hoped that some day I would be able to do a regional tournament.
Then in December, 2008, I received a notice from Western Region LL that I had been selected to represent District 12 at the Junior Regional Tournament. You can ask my wife, Marilyn - I almost drove off the road when she told me there was a letter from Western Region. And now, 8 months later, and many, many more games later, here I am in Aliso Viejo, a day away from the tournament.
Today we had a pre-meeting with the umpire in chief for District 55 where the 8 umpires met for the first time. Guess what - we're just 8 umpires in for a week's worth of baseball - each of us will do 3 games a day for the next 5 days.
We got our official uniforms - Western Region LL shirts and hats - and found out our schedule. We're just hoping the weather doesn't get any hotter than it is now - it was 90 on the field at 5:00.
We have another meeting in 30 minutes where we will meet and be introduced to the 12 teams in the tournament. Can't wait - 200 14 year olds, their coaches, managers and parents - should be a great 'meeting'.
This is the culmination of years of work for 8 select umpires. We represent districts from Southern California, Northern California, Oregon and Washington. Together we have over 100 years of LL umpire experience, including 2 who have umpired in the Major LL Regional in San Bernadino.
My path to this tourney started in Willow Glen in 1989 when my son was 6 years old. When he was 10, I was asked to umpire, and I never looked back. I have umpired many games over the years, and always hoped that some day I would be able to do a regional tournament.
Then in December, 2008, I received a notice from Western Region LL that I had been selected to represent District 12 at the Junior Regional Tournament. You can ask my wife, Marilyn - I almost drove off the road when she told me there was a letter from Western Region. And now, 8 months later, and many, many more games later, here I am in Aliso Viejo, a day away from the tournament.
Today we had a pre-meeting with the umpire in chief for District 55 where the 8 umpires met for the first time. Guess what - we're just 8 umpires in for a week's worth of baseball - each of us will do 3 games a day for the next 5 days.
We got our official uniforms - Western Region LL shirts and hats - and found out our schedule. We're just hoping the weather doesn't get any hotter than it is now - it was 90 on the field at 5:00.
We have another meeting in 30 minutes where we will meet and be introduced to the 12 teams in the tournament. Can't wait - 200 14 year olds, their coaches, managers and parents - should be a great 'meeting'.
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