Home » Baseball » Baseball Knowledge Base Article
Some do, yes.
By: Kenneth Bean
Hi Guys I think calling umpires by their name is best. Good point Splitter, but in the midst of getting everyone pointed in the right direction prior to a game,(we've had games fifteen minutes apart in some leagues), I've often not had a chance to stick their name in my mind. My fault. It may vary in different parts of the country, but here in Texas we appreciate a little "spit and whittle". Translated as taking a moment to ask: "howzyurmomanem?" Around here, "blue" is often a word spoken with a lot of inflection...as in "Bluuuuuuue, where did that call come from anyway?" At best, "blue" is a neutral term. "Mr. Ump" is considered a respectful term by every ump, anywhere I've been. I've umped a lot filling in over the years, have no problem with "Blue". Nevertheless, words are our most important vehicle when communicating with each other. Prefacing whatever I might want to say to an ump, by addressing him or her as Mr./Ms. Ump just might get my kids a fairer hearing, or a clarification that can help the team. With one simple gesture of respect and appreciation for his/her efforts, I've acknowledged their personhood. A cool drink on a hot Texas afternoon can't hurt either. Best regards Kenneth Bean
Display summaries of other articles about umpires.
|