Before the Game — |
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Meeting at home plate |
• Introduce plate and base umpires, managers/coaches |
• Discuss any local playing rules (time limit, playing boundaries, etc.) |
• Discuss the strike zone |
• Discuss unsportsmanlike conduct by the players. |
• Discuss the pitch count rules and who is keeping the count? |
• Clarify calling the game due to weather or darkness |
• Inspect playing field for unsafe conditions |
• Discuss no head-first slides, no on-deck hitter, players warm only up pitchers with head gear on. |
• 5 game balls from home team 3 to home plate 2 to one base umpire. Home team supplies. |
• Be sure players are not wearing any jewelry |
• Be sure players are in uniform (shirts in, hats on) |
• Inspect equipment for damage and to meet regulations |
• Ensure that games start promptly or even earlier if managers agree. |
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During the Game — Umpires and Coaches |
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• Encourage coaches to help speed play by having catchers and players on the bench prepared and ready to take the field with two outs. |
• Make sure catchers are wearing the proper safety equipment |
• Continually monitor the field for safety and playability |
• Pitchers warming up in foul territory must have a spotter and catcher with helmet on. |
• Keep game moving — one minute or eight pitches to warm up the pitcher between innings or mid inning. |
• Make calls loud and clear, signaling each properly- give count after every pitch. |
• Umpires should be in position to make the call |
• No protesting of any judgment calls by the umpire. Ever, zero tolerance. |
• Managers are responsible for keeping their fans and players on their best behavior. |
• Encourage everyone to think safety first! |