Umpire Checklist

Umpiring is a job that requires constant preparation and focus. Baseball umpires, regardless of their position or the level of play, are responsible for a variety of duties. They must know many obscure rules, be focused on every pitch and tend to any disputes that may arise. Umpires should constantly be going through a mental checklist from the first pitch until the game is over.

  1. Becoming an Umpire

    • Those looking to become umpires must complete a checklist of items before they hit the field. At Little League or other youth levels of baseball, umpiring is typically a volunteer job. Umpires still may be required to pass a training program and be well versed in the rules of the game. The checklist to become a professional umpire is slightly longer. A five-week training course is required, and only the top umpires will advance to an evaluation process. If you proceed past that round, expect to work a multi-year stint in the minors before you have a chance of promotion to the major leagues. All the while, you must demonstrate a working knowledge of the rule book.

    Before the Game

    • Once you have become an umpire, your preparation only intensifies. Before a game, an umpire must be confident in his recognition of the rule book and any recent changes that may have occurred. Rules differ based on the type of league, and umpires must adjust accordingly. Additionally, umpires need the proper equipment. Field umpires have a specific uniform, while a home-plate umpire must also bring protective face, head and chest padding. Home-plate umpires must also carry a pen for lineup cards and a brush for cleaning home plate.

    During the Game

    • Umpires must be constantly going through a mental checklist during the baseball game. Each umpire on the field has a different set of responsibilities. All must be aware of the game situation and what his job is for any particular play that may occur. This includes calling strikes and balls, making safe and out calls and dealing with emotional coaches. Also, home-plate umpires are responsible for keeping track of any lineup or pitching changes and reporting them to the official scorer.

    After the Game

    • After the game, the umpire has a few more tasks to complete. At the youth level, umpires will usually remain on the field as teams shake hands. Some players will want to thank the umpires or ask about certain plays. Umpires must also file a game report. This may be as simple as reporting the score to a league official. However, if an ejection or fight occurred in the game, an umpire must explain the event so that the league administration can take the appropriate actions.