Saturday, November 29, 2014
Cricket Umpire Hillel Oscar Dies After Being Hit By Ball
Cricket umpire Hillel Oscar of Israel died after being hit by a ball during a weekend game in Ashdod. According to the Israel Cricket Association, Oscar was a former national team captain and since joined both the domestic and European umpiring ranks. Game-side accounts state he was hit in the jaw by a batted ball that had ricocheted off the stumps and died just two days after Australian batsman Phillip Hughes died of a head injury in Sydney.
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Minor League Baseball Hires Jim Evans as Ump Advisor
Minor League Baseball hired Jim Evans as Umpire Advisor, a new special advisor position created by MiLB. In his role as a special advisor for the league, Evans will serve as a consultant to the President of Minor League Baseball on umpiring-related matters, including special event assignment.
Evans is the former chief of the Jim Evans Academy of Professional Umpiring (JEAPU), which fell from grace several years ago after an incident at a school-sponsored party.
Prior to 2012, the Florida-based JEAPU and the Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School were the only two umpire schools certified by professional baseball to train prospective umpires, which meant that in order to be considered by the Professional Baseball Umpiring Corp. (PBUC), a prospective umpire must have graduated from JEAPU or HW; without going through one of these two feeder schools accredited by MiLB, no umpire would be invited to attend the PBUC evaluation course, another MiLB-placement prerequisite.
In 2012, Minor League Baseball announced the creation of its own feeder school, the league-run The Umpire School (TUS), effectively creating three potential avenues into the competitive and highly selective business of professional umpiring.
Also in 2012, JEAPU threw a bowling party for its instructors after graduation. During this party, one bowling team comprised of Academy employees allegedly wore uniforms resembling white robes associated with the Klu Klux Klan and bowled under the team name, "Klein's Kleaning Krew."
As MiLB reviewed the incident, it consulted PBUC Executive Director Justin Klemm, who also served as Executive Director of The Umpire School, ultimately giving JEAPU the umpiring school's death penalty: Minor League Baseball severed ties with JEAPU, meaning that it would not longer accept JEAPU graduates into the PBUC evaluation course, and, by extension, Minor League Baseball itself.
At the time, Evans wondered whether MiLB's decision, with Klemm's input, was a "conflict of interest." In the years following, The Umpire School's attendance has improved to healthy levels as JEAPU shut its doors to MiLB prospectives. The JEAPU website has not offered online enrollment for any umpiring course since its fateful 2012 class.
These days, Klemm is the Director of Instant Replay for Major League Baseball and is in charge of operations at the New York Replay Operations Center. Klemm accordingly retired from his Executive Director position with PBUC in January of 2014, when he took the MLB post in New York.
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| Former MLB Umpire Jim Evans |
Prior to 2012, the Florida-based JEAPU and the Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School were the only two umpire schools certified by professional baseball to train prospective umpires, which meant that in order to be considered by the Professional Baseball Umpiring Corp. (PBUC), a prospective umpire must have graduated from JEAPU or HW; without going through one of these two feeder schools accredited by MiLB, no umpire would be invited to attend the PBUC evaluation course, another MiLB-placement prerequisite.
In 2012, Minor League Baseball announced the creation of its own feeder school, the league-run The Umpire School (TUS), effectively creating three potential avenues into the competitive and highly selective business of professional umpiring.
Also in 2012, JEAPU threw a bowling party for its instructors after graduation. During this party, one bowling team comprised of Academy employees allegedly wore uniforms resembling white robes associated with the Klu Klux Klan and bowled under the team name, "Klein's Kleaning Krew."
As MiLB reviewed the incident, it consulted PBUC Executive Director Justin Klemm, who also served as Executive Director of The Umpire School, ultimately giving JEAPU the umpiring school's death penalty: Minor League Baseball severed ties with JEAPU, meaning that it would not longer accept JEAPU graduates into the PBUC evaluation course, and, by extension, Minor League Baseball itself.
At the time, Evans wondered whether MiLB's decision, with Klemm's input, was a "conflict of interest." In the years following, The Umpire School's attendance has improved to healthy levels as JEAPU shut its doors to MiLB prospectives. The JEAPU website has not offered online enrollment for any umpiring course since its fateful 2012 class.
These days, Klemm is the Director of Instant Replay for Major League Baseball and is in charge of operations at the New York Replay Operations Center. Klemm accordingly retired from his Executive Director position with PBUC in January of 2014, when he took the MLB post in New York.
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Solution for ABL Case Play: Stepping Over the Line
Our Australian Baseball League dead-ball territory Case Play is now complete, the solution below. Play:
Because the ABL uses the Official Baseball Rules, we can confidently cite MLB's code in solving this Case Play. As it stands, the following comprise our statements of material fact:
➤ The Norwood Oval's ground rules states a line in foul ground delineates live from dead ball territory.
➤ F7 entered his slide, without possession of the ball, while in foul territory, above "in play" ground.
➤ F7 caught the ball and exited his slide, standing on his feet, while in foul territory, "in play."
➤ F7 hopped across the out of play line, such that only his feet/shoes were in contact with the ground.
➤ F7 threw the ball back to the infield while standing wholly in dead ball territory.
OBR Rule 5.10(f) states, "When a fielder, after catching a fly ball, falls into a bench or stand...If a fielder after making a catch steps into a bench, but does not fall, the ball is in play and runners may advance at their own peril."
OBR Rule 6.05(a) Comment states, "The ball is in play unless the fielder, after making a legal catch, falls into a dugout or other out-of-play area, in which case the ball is dead."
OBR Rule 7.04(c) states that each runner may advance one base when, "a fielder, after catching a fly ball, falls into a bench or stand, or falls across ropes into a crowd when spectators are on the field."
Because F7 did not actually fall in or onto dead ball territory—he recovered to his feet and maintained his shoes as the only point of contact with the ground—Rule 7.04(c) cannot apply. According to the Wendelstedt Umpire School, "This is covered under 6.05 (a) Comment. It appears that he slides, makes the catch, recovers to his feet, then steps into the out-of-play area. This is perfectly legal under the rules." Thus, the umpires made the correct call. Live ball, B1 is out, R1 stays at first, R3 scores.
Wendelstedt School Director Brent Rice addressed the following potential scenarios to this play:
➤ Had F7 fallen after entering DBT: Dead ball, B1 is out, R1 awarded one base (2B), R3 scores.
➤ Had F7 made the catch and then slid into DBT: Dead ball, B1 out, R1 awarded 2nd, R3 awarded home.
➤ Had F7 caught the ball after entering DBT—or bobbled the ball into DBT: Foul ball, no out.
➤ Had F7 dropped the ball while standing in DBT having already completed the catch: Dead ball, B1 out, R1 awarded two bases (3B), R3 awarded home.
NCAA RULING: Under most circumstances, this same play is legal in NCAAB, pursuant to Rule 6.1.d. However, Rule 6.1.d(1)(b) specifically authorizes a local facility to adopt a ground rule that would preclude a fielder from throwing from dead-ball territory, though the fielder would be legally permitted to re-enter live-ball territory in order to throw. If such a ground rule is adopted, the penalty for this "catch-and-carry" violation is a dead ball and one-base award.
Thanks to all participants: 2015 UEFL CP points for: AJ_Off, cyclone14, Jim, RichMSN, zimmerthechief.
With none out and two on, Bite batter Chan Moon hit a sacrifice fly to Heat left fielder Tim Smith in foul territory, Bite baserunner R3 Rocky Gale scoring as R1 Michael Miller remained at first base. Replays indicate F7 Smith slid to catch the fly, then regained his footing before stepping across the venue's out-of-play line and into dead ball territory before throwing the ball back to the infield.At issue, as argued by the offensive team's coach, was whether F7's actions caused the ball to become dead and, if so, whether R1 should have been awarded second base.
Because the ABL uses the Official Baseball Rules, we can confidently cite MLB's code in solving this Case Play. As it stands, the following comprise our statements of material fact:
➤ The Norwood Oval's ground rules states a line in foul ground delineates live from dead ball territory.
➤ F7 entered his slide, without possession of the ball, while in foul territory, above "in play" ground.
➤ F7 caught the ball and exited his slide, standing on his feet, while in foul territory, "in play."
➤ F7 hopped across the out of play line, such that only his feet/shoes were in contact with the ground.
➤ F7 threw the ball back to the infield while standing wholly in dead ball territory.
 |
| F7 legally stands out of play |
OBR Rule 6.05(a) Comment states, "The ball is in play unless the fielder, after making a legal catch, falls into a dugout or other out-of-play area, in which case the ball is dead."
OBR Rule 7.04(c) states that each runner may advance one base when, "a fielder, after catching a fly ball, falls into a bench or stand, or falls across ropes into a crowd when spectators are on the field."
Because F7 did not actually fall in or onto dead ball territory—he recovered to his feet and maintained his shoes as the only point of contact with the ground—Rule 7.04(c) cannot apply. According to the Wendelstedt Umpire School, "This is covered under 6.05 (a) Comment. It appears that he slides, makes the catch, recovers to his feet, then steps into the out-of-play area. This is perfectly legal under the rules." Thus, the umpires made the correct call. Live ball, B1 is out, R1 stays at first, R3 scores.
Wendelstedt School Director Brent Rice addressed the following potential scenarios to this play:
➤ Had F7 fallen after entering DBT: Dead ball, B1 is out, R1 awarded one base (2B), R3 scores.
➤ Had F7 made the catch and then slid into DBT: Dead ball, B1 out, R1 awarded 2nd, R3 awarded home.
➤ Had F7 caught the ball after entering DBT—or bobbled the ball into DBT: Foul ball, no out.
➤ Had F7 dropped the ball while standing in DBT having already completed the catch: Dead ball, B1 out, R1 awarded two bases (3B), R3 awarded home.
NCAA RULING: Under most circumstances, this same play is legal in NCAAB, pursuant to Rule 6.1.d. However, Rule 6.1.d(1)(b) specifically authorizes a local facility to adopt a ground rule that would preclude a fielder from throwing from dead-ball territory, though the fielder would be legally permitted to re-enter live-ball territory in order to throw. If such a ground rule is adopted, the penalty for this "catch-and-carry" violation is a dead ball and one-base award.
Thanks to all participants: 2015 UEFL CP points for: AJ_Off, cyclone14, Jim, RichMSN, zimmerthechief.
Friday, November 21, 2014
Final Results: 2014 UEFL Rules Summit
Final results for the 2014 UEFL Rules Summit are in. The Umpire Ejection Fantasy League announces the following rules changes for the 2015 UEFL Season. The results of the Summit have been referred to the UEFL Rules Committee for formal codification and adoption (the 2015 UEFL Rules will be released prior to standard registration, by February 2015):
➤ 6-1-a: Appeals must be initiated within 24-hour statute of limitations; 69% Yes, 26% No.
➤ 6-2-b-5: Ejections for arguing a Replay Review are deemed irrecusable; 66% Yes, 29% No.
➤ 6-2-b-5: Ejections for throwing equipment are judged individually; 74% Yes, 20% No.
➤ 6-2-b-5-c: All check swing ejections are referred to Appeals Board for QOC; 51% Yes, 46% No.
➤ 8-1: Penalty system to be established for violations of community guidelines; 60% Yes, 31% No.
➤ 9-1-a: Appeals Board has elastic clause power rule on unaddressed issues; 69% Yes, 23% No.
➤ Appeals Board: Arik G; 69% Yes, 23% No.
➤ Appeals Board: JD; 69% Yes, 20% No.
➤ Appeals Board: RichMSN; 80% Yes, 11% No.
➤ Appeals Board: tmac; 80% Yes, 9% No.
➤ Appeals Board: Turducken; 74% Yes, 17% No.
➤ Appeals Board: cyclone14; 57% Yes, 31% No.
2015 UEFL Appeals Board: Gil, Jeremy, RichMSN, tmac, Turducken, Arik G, JD, cyclone14.
The following proposals did not receive an absolute majority of yea votes and, therefore, did not pass:
➤ 1-3: Decrease in number of drafted umpires to three (from five); 34% Yes, 54% No.
➤ 3-3-a: Assessment of -1 points for crew chief's incorrect call (from +0); 31% Yes, 60% No.
➤ 4-7: Removal of Instant Replay Reviews from league scoring; 31% Yes, 63% No.
➤ 6-2-b-8: UEFL to determine Replay Review QOC independent of MLB; 46% Yes, 49% No.
➤ 6-2-c-a: Confirmed/Overturned calling official = NY, Stands = Field; 40% Yes, 54% No.
➤ 6-4-a-3: UEFL Appeals Board terms of office extended to three years; 40% Yes, 57% No.
➤ 8-5: UEFL draft to adopt a required entry fee; 11% Yes, 80% No.
➤ 8-3: Voting for Appeals Board restricted to prior year's UEFL membership; 48% Yes, 46% No.
➤ 8-6: 30 QOC Quick Votes in opposition to Original Ruling triggers appeal; 49% Yes, 46% No.
➤ 8-7: UEFL members authorized to trade a team member during season; 44% Yes, 46% No.
Thank you all for participating in the 2014 UEFL Rules Summit and we'll see you in 2015. Stay tuned for the answer to the Stepping Over the Line ABL Case Play and offseason ejection updates/reports.
➤ 6-1-a: Appeals must be initiated within 24-hour statute of limitations; 69% Yes, 26% No.
➤ 6-2-b-5: Ejections for arguing a Replay Review are deemed irrecusable; 66% Yes, 29% No.
➤ 6-2-b-5: Ejections for throwing equipment are judged individually; 74% Yes, 20% No.
➤ 6-2-b-5-c: All check swing ejections are referred to Appeals Board for QOC; 51% Yes, 46% No.
➤ 8-1: Penalty system to be established for violations of community guidelines; 60% Yes, 31% No.
➤ 9-1-a: Appeals Board has elastic clause power rule on unaddressed issues; 69% Yes, 23% No.
➤ Appeals Board: Arik G; 69% Yes, 23% No.
➤ Appeals Board: JD; 69% Yes, 20% No.
➤ Appeals Board: RichMSN; 80% Yes, 11% No.
➤ Appeals Board: tmac; 80% Yes, 9% No.
➤ Appeals Board: Turducken; 74% Yes, 17% No.
➤ Appeals Board: cyclone14; 57% Yes, 31% No.
2015 UEFL Appeals Board: Gil, Jeremy, RichMSN, tmac, Turducken, Arik G, JD, cyclone14.
The following proposals did not receive an absolute majority of yea votes and, therefore, did not pass:
➤ 1-3: Decrease in number of drafted umpires to three (from five); 34% Yes, 54% No.
➤ 3-3-a: Assessment of -1 points for crew chief's incorrect call (from +0); 31% Yes, 60% No.
➤ 4-7: Removal of Instant Replay Reviews from league scoring; 31% Yes, 63% No.
➤ 6-2-b-8: UEFL to determine Replay Review QOC independent of MLB; 46% Yes, 49% No.
➤ 6-2-c-a: Confirmed/Overturned calling official = NY, Stands = Field; 40% Yes, 54% No.
➤ 6-4-a-3: UEFL Appeals Board terms of office extended to three years; 40% Yes, 57% No.
➤ 8-5: UEFL draft to adopt a required entry fee; 11% Yes, 80% No.
➤ 8-3: Voting for Appeals Board restricted to prior year's UEFL membership; 48% Yes, 46% No.
➤ 8-6: 30 QOC Quick Votes in opposition to Original Ruling triggers appeal; 49% Yes, 46% No.
➤ 8-7: UEFL members authorized to trade a team member during season; 44% Yes, 46% No.
Thank you all for participating in the 2014 UEFL Rules Summit and we'll see you in 2015. Stay tuned for the answer to the Stepping Over the Line ABL Case Play and offseason ejection updates/reports.
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Case Play (ABL Ejection): Stepping Over the Line
An umpire's out/live ball in play vs. dead ball call sparked an ejection in the Australian Baseball League this weekend as 3B Umpire Neil Poulton ejected Adelaide Bite Manager Brooke Knight for arguing a live ball call in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Heat-Bite game. With none out and two on, Bite batter Chan Moon hit a sacrifice fly to Heat left fielder Tim Smith in foul territory, Bite baserunner R3 Rocky Gale scoring as R1 Michael Miller remained at first base. At issue was not the validity of the out (catch) call, but whether F7 Smith "fell" before throwing the ball back into the infield and keeping Miller at first base. The ground rules for the Norwood Oval specify that an out-of-bounds line shall exist in the corners of the outfield, in front of the bullpens, and that a fielder or ball crossing this line shall be deemed out of play.
The ABL uses the Official Baseball Rules; pursuant to OBR Rule 5.10(f), "When a fielder, after catching a fly ball, falls into a bench or stand," the ball is dead. However, "If a fielder after making a catch steps into a bench, but does not fall, the ball is in play and runners may advance at their own peril." Rule 7.04(c) specifies that each runner may advance one base when "A fielder, after catching a fly ball, falls into a bench or stand, or falls across ropes into a crowd when spectators are on the field." Rule 6.05(a) Comment similarly states that the "ball is in play unless the fielder, after making a legal catch, falls into a dugout or other out-of-play area, in which case the ball is dead." Replays indicate F7 Smith slid and caught the ball in the field of play, appearing to regain his footing before stepping over the out-of-play line (see attached photograph).
Q: Does this constitute a "fall" under Rule 5.10(f) or a "step into a bench"? Is a bullpen a bench?
HINT: MLBUM #24(5).
Case Play Note: Yes, the 2014 UEFL season has concluded. However, up to two Case Play points for the 2015 UEFL season may be gained through contributing to this discussion.
Wrap: Perth Heat vs. Adelaide Bite (Australian Baseball League), 11/15/14
Video: Sac fly to LF gives Bite a 3-1 lead and fireworks, too, on question of Smith's status (ABL)
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| Momentum carries F7 across the OOP line. |
Q: Does this constitute a "fall" under Rule 5.10(f) or a "step into a bench"? Is a bullpen a bench?
HINT: MLBUM #24(5).
Case Play Note: Yes, the 2014 UEFL season has concluded. However, up to two Case Play points for the 2015 UEFL season may be gained through contributing to this discussion.
Wrap: Perth Heat vs. Adelaide Bite (Australian Baseball League), 11/15/14
Video: Sac fly to LF gives Bite a 3-1 lead and fireworks, too, on question of Smith's status (ABL)
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Polls: 2014 UEFL Rules Summit Voting
The Umpire Ejection Fantasy League announces 2014 Rules Summit voting, which follows the Summit's discussion phase. It is now time to vote for UEFL rules modifications in advance of the 2014 baseball season.
The following ballot includes a description of proposals and an opportunity to vote on each measure. Upon Commissioner approval, all passing proposals will become rules for the 2014 UEFL season. Pursuant to the terms of UEFL Rule 8-1, a proposal with two options (e.g., Yes/No) is considered passing if it receives an absolute majority.
The Rules Summit ballot will close Saturday, November 22, at 11:59 pm PST. A run-off ballot and/or election will follow, beginning the afternoon or evening of Sunday, November 23.
The 2014 Rules Summit includes 19 polls related to proposals and six Appeals Board re-election polls. Carefully consider the below options before submitting your ballot. As in years past, you may vote in as many or as few polls as you wish. Be advised we will review voting records to determine ballot authenticity, which includes allegations or suspicions of fraudulent activity or misconduct. Click "read more" or click here to access the ballot.
The following ballot includes a description of proposals and an opportunity to vote on each measure. Upon Commissioner approval, all passing proposals will become rules for the 2014 UEFL season. Pursuant to the terms of UEFL Rule 8-1, a proposal with two options (e.g., Yes/No) is considered passing if it receives an absolute majority.
The Rules Summit ballot will close Saturday, November 22, at 11:59 pm PST. A run-off ballot and/or election will follow, beginning the afternoon or evening of Sunday, November 23.
The 2014 Rules Summit includes 19 polls related to proposals and six Appeals Board re-election polls. Carefully consider the below options before submitting your ballot. As in years past, you may vote in as many or as few polls as you wish. Be advised we will review voting records to determine ballot authenticity, which includes allegations or suspicions of fraudulent activity or misconduct. Click "read more" or click here to access the ballot.
Roster: 2014 Arizona Fall League Championship Game
Umpire Ryan Blakney plates the Arizona Fall League Championship Game played Saturday, November 15, 2014. He is joined by Doug Vines (1B), Ryan Goodman (2B) and Shaun Lampe (3B). The AFL Championship is the final game of the Arizona Fall League season, pitting together top prospects in baseball on the fall stage. The 2014 AFL Championship is being played at Scottsdale Stadium and features the Peoria Javelinas and Salt River Rafters.
Umpiring Crew, 2014 Arizona Fall League Championship Game (Peoria vs Salt River):
HP: Ryan Blakney (AAA: Pacific Coast League)
1B: Doug Vines (AAA: International League)
2B: Ryan Goodman (AAA: PCL)
3B: Shaun Lampe (AAA: PCL)
Umpiring Crew, 2014 Arizona Fall League Championship Game (Peoria vs Salt River):
HP: Ryan Blakney (AAA: Pacific Coast League)
1B: Doug Vines (AAA: International League)
2B: Ryan Goodman (AAA: PCL)
3B: Shaun Lampe (AAA: PCL)
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Roster: 2014 MLB Japan All-Star Series
Umpire Chris Conroy & Crew Chief Mike Winters are in Japan for MLB's All-Star Series, joining local officials Fumihiro Yoshimoto and Hideto Fuke for the Exhibition Game at Koshien Stadium in Osaka. Veteran Fumihiro Yoshimoto worked his 1,000th career game in Nippon Professional Baseball in July 2014. In the postseason, Winters served as crew chief for the 2014 NLDS with Chris Conroy assigned to NY's Replay Operations Center while both Yoshimoto and Fuke officiated the NPB's equivalent for the Pacific League. Game 1 vs. Samurai Japan saw the addition of Jerry Layne while Game 3's combined no-hitter featured Mike Winters behind the dish.
Look closely and you might see the portable camera mounted on the hockey-style mask of plate umpire Fumihiro Yoshimoto. MLB Network will show replays from the camera throughout the broadcast.
Umpiring Assignments, MLB All-Stars vs Hanshin-Yomiuri*, Exhibition Game:
HP: Fumihiro Yoshimoto (JPN)
1B: Chris Conroy (USA)
2B: Hideto Fuke (JPN)
3B: Mike Winters (USA)
Umpires, MLB All-Stars vs. Samurai Japan (Japanese National Team), Game 1:
HP: Chris Conroy (USA)
1B: Takanori Yamamoto (JPN)
2B: Jerry Layne (USA)
3B: Katsumi Manabe (JPN)
Umpires, Samurai Japan (Japanese National Team) vs. MLB All-Stars, Game 2:
HP: Shoji Arisumi (JPN)
1B: Jerry Layne (USA)
2B: Chikara Tsugawa (JPN)
3B: Chris Conroy (USA)
Look closely and you might see the portable camera mounted on the hockey-style mask of plate umpire Fumihiro Yoshimoto. MLB Network will show replays from the camera throughout the broadcast.
Umpiring Assignments, MLB All-Stars vs Hanshin-Yomiuri*, Exhibition Game:
HP: Fumihiro Yoshimoto (JPN)
1B: Chris Conroy (USA)
2B: Hideto Fuke (JPN)
3B: Mike Winters (USA)
Umpires, MLB All-Stars vs. Samurai Japan (Japanese National Team), Game 1:
HP: Chris Conroy (USA)
1B: Takanori Yamamoto (JPN)
2B: Jerry Layne (USA)
3B: Katsumi Manabe (JPN)
Umpires, Samurai Japan (Japanese National Team) vs. MLB All-Stars, Game 2:
HP: Shoji Arisumi (JPN)
1B: Jerry Layne (USA)
2B: Chikara Tsugawa (JPN)
3B: Chris Conroy (USA)
Game 3:
HP: Mike Winters
1B: Kyohei Makita
2B: Jerry Layne
3B: Masanobu Sasaki
Game 4:
HP: Masao Yanada
1B: Mike Winters
2B: Kinji Nishimoto
3B: Chris Conroy
Game 5:
HP: Jerry Layne
1B: Kunio Kiuchi
2B: Mike Winters
3B: Norihiro Akimura
Game 4:
HP: Masao Yanada
1B: Mike Winters
2B: Kinji Nishimoto
3B: Chris Conroy
Game 5:
HP: Jerry Layne
1B: Kunio Kiuchi
2B: Mike Winters
3B: Norihiro Akimura
Sunday, November 9, 2014
ABL Ejection: Greg Kent (1; Dae-Sung Koo)
Wrap: Sydney Blue Sox vs. Canberra Cavalry (Australian Baseball League), 11/9/14
Video: Dae-Sung Koo is ejected in textbook ejection for drawing line in the dirt on 'black' of plate (ABL)
Saturday, November 8, 2014
2014 UEFL Rules Summit: Discussion
The Umpire Ejection Fantasy League announces its 2014 Rules Summit, a postseason forum with a purpose of discussing any controversial issues which have surfaced during the past season and to set forth a framework for rectifying these issues by altering the existing UEFL Rules Book in advance of the 2015 UEFL season.
This discussion thread is an open forum for the proposal, discussion and debate of potential rules changes. This thread will remain open through Friday, November 14, which will provide ample time for the proposal and subsequent discussion of possible rules changes for the 2015 season. If necessitated by certain below decisions, a Summit runoff ballot may be presented after the initial voting closes.
The following matters are presently on docket for 2014 Rules Summit consideration. Any UEFL'er or guest may contribute an idea by replying to this thread; in turn, the following list will be updated to reflect the added item(s). Proposed rules modifications or changes are identified by italics, deletions bystrikeout and additions by bold text. Editorial changes underlined. Individual propositions are identified by the ">>" symbol.
Rule 1 (Selection of Umpires).
>> Section 3 amended as follows: "...each member of the league shall selecttwo umpires one umpire..." Section 4 shall be amended as follows: "...shall select two additional umpires one additional umpire." Proposal would decrease # of drafted umpires from 1 cc + 2 PRM + 2 SEC to 1 cc + 1 PRM + 1 SEC.
Rule 2 (The Season).
Rule 3 (Crew Division).
Rule 4 (League Scoring).
>> Section 7. Eliminates Section "Replay Challenges and Reviews." Proposal would eliminate all points from Replay Review and return to scoring of *just* ejections.
Rule 5 (Statistics).
Rule 6 (Challenges and Appeals).
>> Section 2-b-5. Adds phrase: "The Quality of Correctness for all reasons of Fighting, Throwing At, Unsportsmanlike Conduct-NEC, arguing a Replay Review decision or Excess Contact shall be judged as "Irrecusable" by default..."
>> Section 2-b-5-c. Adds provision: "Ejections exclusively concerning the call of check swing (ball or strike) shall be referred to the UEFL Appeals Board for a vote of Confirm/Uphold (QOC Correct) or Overturn (QOC Incorrect). Because no Original Ruling will be crafted in the case of a check swing, the Board's ruling will determine Quality of Correctness, which may not be appealed."
>> Section 2-b-8. Adds provision: "Quality of Correctness for Replay Reviews shall be determined by the UEFL independent of the outcome of the Replay Review."
>>>>> Note: This would require the following editorial changes: Rule 4-7-a: "Calls affirmed or upheld as correct or inconclusive Correct/Inconclusive calls will result in the addition of one (1) point." 4-7-b: "Calls overturned or found to be incorrect will result in the application of negative one (-1) points."
>> Section 2-c-a amended as follows: "...after umpire consultation and calls that stand afteror instant replay challenge shall revert to whichever umpire would have had primary responsibility (calling) had the consultation or challenge not occurred." Section 2-c-b amended as follows: "All classifications in regards to calls that are confirmed or overturned after instant replay review shall revert to reflect the crew chief replay official as the calling umpire, such that any on-field ejection that results shall be a crewmate ejection."
>> Section 4-a-3 amended as follows: "[Appeals Board] At-large terms shall belimited to one year three years in length with no term limits."
Rule 7 (Unresolved Classifications and References).
Rule 8 (Umpire Odds & Ends and Community Issues).
>> Section 3. Adds section requiring entrance fee. If passed, terms determined via runoff ballot.
Rule 9 (Unaddressed and Authorized Provisions).
Appeals Board Membership: Re-Election Ballot (Click here to view 2014 Appeals Board decisions)
The following 2014 UEFL Appeals Board Members are seeking re-election via the 2014 Rules Summit.
>> This section will be completed in advance of Rules Summit voting.
Again, this is the discussion phase of the 2014 UEFL Rules Summit and will remain active through 11/14, after which proposals will be officially drafted and voting will commence. Please do not vote in this thread.
This discussion thread is an open forum for the proposal, discussion and debate of potential rules changes. This thread will remain open through Friday, November 14, which will provide ample time for the proposal and subsequent discussion of possible rules changes for the 2015 season. If necessitated by certain below decisions, a Summit runoff ballot may be presented after the initial voting closes.
The following matters are presently on docket for 2014 Rules Summit consideration. Any UEFL'er or guest may contribute an idea by replying to this thread; in turn, the following list will be updated to reflect the added item(s). Proposed rules modifications or changes are identified by italics, deletions by
Rule 1 (Selection of Umpires).
>> Section 3 amended as follows: "...each member of the league shall select
Rule 2 (The Season).
Rule 3 (Crew Division).
Rule 4 (League Scoring).
>> Section 7. Eliminates Section "
Rule 5 (Statistics).
Rule 6 (Challenges and Appeals).
>> Section 2-b-5. Adds phrase: "The Quality of Correctness for all reasons of Fighting, Throwing At, Unsportsmanlike Conduct-NEC, arguing a Replay Review decision or Excess Contact shall be judged as "Irrecusable" by default..."
>> Section 2-b-5-c. Adds provision: "Ejections exclusively concerning the call of check swing (ball or strike) shall be referred to the UEFL Appeals Board for a vote of Confirm/Uphold (QOC Correct) or Overturn (QOC Incorrect). Because no Original Ruling will be crafted in the case of a check swing, the Board's ruling will determine Quality of Correctness, which may not be appealed."
>> Section 2-b-8. Adds provision: "Quality of Correctness for Replay Reviews shall be determined by the UEFL independent of the outcome of the Replay Review."
>>>>> Note: This would require the following editorial changes: Rule 4-7-a: "
>> Section 2-c-a amended as follows: "...after umpire consultation and calls that stand after
>> Section 4-a-3 amended as follows: "[Appeals Board] At-large terms shall be
Rule 7 (Unresolved Classifications and References).
Rule 8 (Umpire Odds & Ends and Community Issues).
>> Section 3. Adds section requiring entrance fee. If passed, terms determined via runoff ballot.
Rule 9 (Unaddressed and Authorized Provisions).
Appeals Board Membership: Re-Election Ballot (Click here to view 2014 Appeals Board decisions)
The following 2014 UEFL Appeals Board Members are seeking re-election via the 2014 Rules Summit.
>> This section will be completed in advance of Rules Summit voting.
Again, this is the discussion phase of the 2014 UEFL Rules Summit and will remain active through 11/14, after which proposals will be officially drafted and voting will commence. Please do not vote in this thread.
Friday, November 7, 2014
2014 UEFL Awards: Umpire of the Year: Ted Barrett
2014 UEFL Awards: Umpire of the Year: Ted Barrett (65) [2013 Winner: Jim Joyce]
Voting Results (min. 10%): Ted Barrett (11%), Greg Gibson (10%).
In his 18th MLB season, Ted Barrett concluded 2014 with four ejections (089: Ron Washington, 095: Kirk Gibson, 096: Evan Marshall, 136: Ron Gardenhire) and was 10-for-22 (.455 RAP) in Replay Review. with one UEFL'er describing Barrett as "MLB's most underrated umpire, while simultaneously being among the league's best." Barrett's 2014 Division and World Series appearances marked his 10th straight postseason (he last missed the playoffs in 2004, but worked the Division Series annually from 2000-2003), and his third Fall Classic overall (2007, 2011). Barrett's three years between World Series is the shortest span between two such appearances since Crew Chief Jeff Kellogg worked the Fall Classic in 2008 and 2010, and matches the 2009/12 and 2010/13 splits by Gerry Davis and John Hirschbeck, respectively. Barrett also won the 2014 Honorable Umpire and Crew Chief of the Year Awards, which marks the first time in UEFL history that an umpire has won the "Triple Crown" of postseason awards.
Ted Barrett now has 26 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (21 Previous + 5 Award = 26).
With the final award in the books, the UEFL announces the final standings for the 2014 UEFL season.
The "Perfect Score" this season was 162. Perfect score is calculated using the highest points possible per category (32 [Miller -cc] + 36 [Carapazza] + 30 [Bellino] + 23 [Guccione] + 22 [T Barrett] + 19 CP/Props = 162 Total Points). Accordingly, the "Perfect Crew" was comprised of Bill Miller (crew chief), Vic Carapazza (primary #1), Dan Bellino (primary #2), Chris Guccione (secondary #1) and Ted Barrett (secondary #2).
UEFL Final Standings
1) Russ (102 pts)
2) Fikester (101 pts)
3) AlwaysOsinski (99 pts)
4) BkSl14812, flaump22, Tom Slick (96 pts)
7) toss 'em (94 pts)
8) CricketChapman (91 pts)
9) BigCatch22, dmcneeley, eastern36, youthministeradam (86 pts)
13) jdphenicie (83 pts)
14) johnnyg08 (80 pts)
15) DNS67665 (78 pts)
16) UmpAtty (77 pts)
17) JRD, thejaigner (73 pts)
19) brettjwhaley, johnnyd8833 (71 pts)
UEFL Express Final Standings
1) Tom Slick (96 pts)
2) youthministeradam (86 pts)
3) jdphenicie (83 pts)
4) johnnyg08 (80 pts)
5) hohnforpresident (60 pts)
6) JJBilinski, wwjd220 (57 pts)
8) kickersrule (56 pts)
9) Krwill96 (55 pts)
10) QuickTrigger3 (52 pts)
The Rules Summit will begin tomorrow.
Voting Results (min. 10%): Ted Barrett (11%), Greg Gibson (10%).
 |
| MLB Umpire Ted Barrett |
Ted Barrett now has 26 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (21 Previous + 5 Award = 26).
With the final award in the books, the UEFL announces the final standings for the 2014 UEFL season.
The "Perfect Score" this season was 162. Perfect score is calculated using the highest points possible per category (32 [Miller -cc] + 36 [Carapazza] + 30 [Bellino] + 23 [Guccione] + 22 [T Barrett] + 19 CP/Props = 162 Total Points). Accordingly, the "Perfect Crew" was comprised of Bill Miller (crew chief), Vic Carapazza (primary #1), Dan Bellino (primary #2), Chris Guccione (secondary #1) and Ted Barrett (secondary #2).
UEFL Final Standings
1) Russ (102 pts)
2) Fikester (101 pts)
3) AlwaysOsinski (99 pts)
4) BkSl14812, flaump22, Tom Slick (96 pts)
7) toss 'em (94 pts)
8) CricketChapman (91 pts)
9) BigCatch22, dmcneeley, eastern36, youthministeradam (86 pts)
13) jdphenicie (83 pts)
14) johnnyg08 (80 pts)
15) DNS67665 (78 pts)
16) UmpAtty (77 pts)
17) JRD, thejaigner (73 pts)
19) brettjwhaley, johnnyd8833 (71 pts)
UEFL Express Final Standings
1) Tom Slick (96 pts)
2) youthministeradam (86 pts)
3) jdphenicie (83 pts)
4) johnnyg08 (80 pts)
5) hohnforpresident (60 pts)
6) JJBilinski, wwjd220 (57 pts)
8) kickersrule (56 pts)
9) Krwill96 (55 pts)
10) QuickTrigger3 (52 pts)
The Rules Summit will begin tomorrow.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
2014 Ejections of the Year: Joe West & Mike Winters
2014 UEFL Awards: Ejections of the Year: Joe West, Mike Winters (Ejection: [189], [137])
Voting Results (min. 10%): Joe West-189 (18%), Mike Winters-137 (14%), Andy Fletcher-119 (10%).
Ejection 189: Joe West (3; Jonathan Papelbon); On September 14 in Philadelphia, 2B Umpire Joe West ejected Phillies pitcher Jonathan Papelbon for a lewd gesture made while Papelbon was leaving the field during a pitching change. Replays indicate the existence of an obscene gesture, which MLB Executive Vice President for Baseball Operations Joe Torre confirmed was "appropriately" disciplined by West with expulsion from the game. After the ejection, Papelbon confronted West, who in turn appeared to grab Papelbon's jersey to brush the player aside as West continued walking from the first base area back to his position in shallow center field. MLB reacted to the incident by suspending Joe West one game for initiating physical contact with a player. Joe West previously won the UEFL's 2013 Ejection of the Year Award.
Ejection 137: Mike Winters (1; Mike Redmond); On July 31 in Miami, HP Umpire Mike Winters ejected Marlins Manager Mike Redmond for arguing a Replay Review decision that overturned Winters' Rule 7.13 violation no-call (out), resulting in the tying run being awarded to the visiting Reds. Following Redmond's prompt dismissal, the catcher-turned-manager untucked his jersey, threw his cap and animatedly argued New York's ruling. UEFL'ers observed during the review that Winters appeared "beyond aggravated on the headset. He goes out and tells Redmond, 'that's bullshit,' then hands the ball to F1 and says, 'I agree, as well.'"
Joe West now has 17 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (16 Previous + 1 Award = 17).
Mike Winters now has 8 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (7 Previous + 1 Award = 8).
The final postseason award, Umpire of the Year, will be released tomorrow.
Voting Results (min. 10%): Joe West-189 (18%), Mike Winters-137 (14%), Andy Fletcher-119 (10%).
 |
| Umpire Joe West ejects Jonathan Papelbon |
 |
| Umpire Mike Winters ejects Mike Remond |
Joe West now has 17 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (16 Previous + 1 Award = 17).
Mike Winters now has 8 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (7 Previous + 1 Award = 8).
The final postseason award, Umpire of the Year, will be released tomorrow.
UEFL Awards: Noteworthy Umps: Carapazza, Hernandez
2014 UEFL Awards: Noteworthy Umps: Vic Carapazza, Angel Hernandez (19, 55) [2013: Wegner/Iassogna]
Voting Results (min. 10%): Carapazza (12%), Hernandez (12%), Alan Porter (11%), Chris Guccione (10%).
In his 4th MLB season, Vic Carapazza finished the year with seven ejections (5 regular season; 038: Mike Maddux, 099-100: Alex Rios & Michael Choice, 112: Kevin Seitzer, 160: David Ross + 2 postseason; P-1|2: Asdrubal Cabrera & Matt Williams). In Replay Reviews, Carapazza was 15-for-18 (.833 RAP), good enough for fifth-best in the league ahead of Mike Estabrook and behind Hunter Wendelstedt. Carapazza worked the 2014 All-Star Game and the 2014 National League Division Series (both his first). UEFL'ers praised Carapazza for moving well to secure angles and his patience in situation handling. Wrote one, "was somewhat skeptical about his preparedness for MLB, but he's turned out to be doing just fine."
In his 22nd MLB season, Angel Hernandez concluded 2014 with three ejections (020: Matt Kemp, 058: Anthony Recker, 118: Jean Machi). In Replay Reviews, Hernandez was nine-for-20 (.450 RAP), or 58th place, ahead of CB Bucknor and behind Ted Barrett. In Award co-recepient Vic Carapazza's August ejection of David Ross, Hernandez joined Crew Chief Larry Vanover and took the lead by restraining Ross from following Carapazza, who was walking away. UEFL'ers also praised Hernandez for his actions during Ejections 058-060 in helping calm a bench clearing incident by removing instigator Yunel Escobar from the fighting situation. Hernandez was also involved in the June bench-clearing (Ejections 080-081) in Baltimore after Manny Machado threw his bat toward third base, where U3 Hernandez stopped the projectile with his foot. Hernandez received the UEFL's Noteworthy Umpire of the Year Award in 2012.
Vic Carapazza now has 36 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (33 Previous + 3 Award = 36).
Angel Hernandez now has 1 point in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (-2 Previous + 3 Award = 1).
The next postseason award, Ejection(s) of the Year, will be released tonight.
Voting Results (min. 10%): Carapazza (12%), Hernandez (12%), Alan Porter (11%), Chris Guccione (10%).
 |
| MLB Umpire Vic Carapazza |
 |
| Umpire Angel Hernandez |
Vic Carapazza now has 36 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (33 Previous + 3 Award = 36).
Angel Hernandez now has 1 point in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (-2 Previous + 3 Award = 1).
The next postseason award, Ejection(s) of the Year, will be released tonight.
2014 UEFL Awards: Honorable: J Hirschbeck, T Barrett
2014 UEFL Awards: Honorable Umpires: John Hirschbeck & Ted Barrett (17, 65) [2013: Bell/Barrett]
Voting Results (min. 10%): John Hirschbeck (15%), Ted Barrett (10%).
In his 31st MLB season, Hirschbeck suffered the loss of his second son, who passed away at the age of 27. In 1993, Hirschbeck's other son died of complications of adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), a rare brain disease. Hirschbeck is a cancer survivor, having seen a remission from testicular cancer episodes in 2009 and 2012. Prior to his April departure from the field, Hirschbeck had his only challenged play confirmed by Replay Review, making him the only MLB umpire to have a perfect replay record in 2014. Hirschbeck returned to baseball in late September, working from New York's Replay Operations Center, but did not return to the playing field. Hirschbeck previously won the UEFL's 2013 Crew Chief of the Year Award, a season in which Hirschbeck served as crew chief for his third All-Star Game and the 2013 World Series (his fourth Fall Classic).
Prior to his 18th MLB season, Barrett, along with Mexico native Alfonso Marquez, travelled to Mexico, as they do every year prior to spring training, to develop Mexican League umpires and for children who are lacking clothing and other necessities ("Fonzie's Kids"). Marquez was the UEFL's Honorable Umpire of the Year in 2011 whereas Barrett was a UEFL Honorable Umpire of the Year in 2013 (Barrett also won the Award in 2012, making 2014 his third-straight Honorable Umpire of the Year Award win). A founder of the baseball-themed ministry Calling for Christ, a ministry for professional baseball umpires, Associate Pastor Barrett holds a Pastoral Ministry PhD in theology from Trinity Theological Seminary and also won the 2014 UEFL Crew Chief of the Year Award. He is the only active umpire to serve as a pastor for the ministry. Chris Guccione, Rob Drake, Mike Everitt, Marvin Hudson and Alfonso Marquez round out the group's Board.
John Hirschbeck now has 3 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (1 Previous + 2 Award = 3).
Ted Barrett now has 21 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (19 Previous + 2 Award = 21).
The next postseason award, Noteworthy Umpire(s) of the Year, will be released later today.
Voting Results (min. 10%): John Hirschbeck (15%), Ted Barrett (10%).
 |
| Umpire John Hirschbeck |
|
| Umpire Ted Barrett |
John Hirschbeck now has 3 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (1 Previous + 2 Award = 3).
Ted Barrett now has 21 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (19 Previous + 2 Award = 21).
The next postseason award, Noteworthy Umpire(s) of the Year, will be released later today.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
2014 UEFL Awards: Crew Chief of Year: Ted Barrett
2014 UEFL Awards: Crew Chief of the Year: Ted Barrett (65) [2013 Winner: John Hirschbeck]
Voting Results (min. 10%): Ted Barrett (21%), Dale Scott (12%), Joe West (12%).
Ted Barrett is the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League's 2014 crew chief of the year. In his 18th MLB season, Barrett finished 2014 with four ejections (089: Ron Washington, 095: Kirk Gibson, 096: Evan Marshall, 136: Ron Gardenhire), three of which (089, 095, 136) were ejections for arguing Replay Review decisions concerning a crewmate's call. Regarding Replay Review, Barrett was 10-for-22 (.455 RAP). Both Barrett and crewmate Paul Schrieber made the 2014 postseason (Alfonso Marquez was not eligible due to having worked too few games; Will Little for being a fill-in), which marked Schrieber's first postseason since 2001. UEFL'ers praised Barrett for "being among the league's best," noting Barrett's selection to the World Series crew relatively soon after his 2011 assignment and 2013 promotion to regular season crew chief. Specifically, Barrett "cares for his crew & not just himself," and in doing so, "signified everything that a Crew Chief should."
Ted Barrett now has 19 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (18 Previous + 1 Award = 19).
The next postseason award, Honorable Umpire(s) of the Year, will be released later tonight.
Voting Results (min. 10%): Ted Barrett (21%), Dale Scott (12%), Joe West (12%).
|
| MLB Umpire Ted Barrett |
Ted Barrett now has 19 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (18 Previous + 1 Award = 19).
The next postseason award, Honorable Umpire(s) of the Year, will be released later tonight.
2014 UEFL Awards: Fill-In of the Year: Tripp Gibson
2014 UEFL Awards: Fill-In Umpire of the Year: Tripp Gibson (73) [2013 Winner: Clint Fagan]
Voting Results (min. 10%): Gibson (27%), Will Little (18%), Adam Hamari (12%), John Tumpane (10%).
Hal "Tripp" Gibson III is the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League's 2014 fill-in (AAA) umpire of the year. In his second Major League Baseball fill-in umpiring season (first full), Gibson finished 2014 with one ejection, Ejection 092: Tripp Gibson (1; Josh Donaldson). Gibson finished the year 10-for-18 in Replay Reviews for a .556 Replay Affirmation Percentage, tied with Tom Hallion and Jerry Meals and ahead of the league average by .031 points. Gibson led all call-up and full-time MLB umpires in games worked in 2014 with 149 games, ahead of Mark Ripperger's 142 and Will Little's 141. UEFL'ers predict Gibson is a leading candidate for off-season hiring to the MLBU staff, nominating Gibson for the Fill-In Umpire of the Year Award based on his "awesome mechanics" and an on-field presence that "commanded respect," handling arguments "like a tenured veteran."
Tripp Gibson now has 9 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (7 Previous + 2 Award = 9).
The next postseason award, Crew Chief of the Year, will be released later today.
Voting Results (min. 10%): Gibson (27%), Will Little (18%), Adam Hamari (12%), John Tumpane (10%).
 |
| Umpire Tripp Gibson |
Tripp Gibson now has 9 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (7 Previous + 2 Award = 9).
The next postseason award, Crew Chief of the Year, will be released later today.
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
2014 UEFL Awards: Most Improved Umpire: CB Bucknor
2014 UEFL Awards: Most Improved Umpire: CB Bucknor (54) [2013 Winner: CB Bucknor]
Voting Results (min. 10%): CB Bucknor (24%), Alan Porter (11%), Bob Davidson (10%).
CB Bucknor is the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League's 2014 most improved umpire of the year, which marks his second consecutive season receiving this award. In his 16th Major League Baseball umpiring season, Bucknor finished 2014 with one ejection; Bucknor ejected four times in 2013. Bucknor's 2014 ejection concerned a correctly ruled strike three call in Boston (Ejection 149: Bucknor [1, Mike Napoli]). In Replay Review, Bucknor finished eight-for-eighteen for a RAP of .444, which includes our overturned comic relief replay of the year when CB fell down on a stolen base attempt in Milwaukee. UEFL'ers described Bucknor as having "grown" over the past few seasons while complimenting his crisp mechanics. During the postseason, Bucknor served on baseball's inaugural Division Series replay crew.
CB Bucknor now has 15 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (2 Previous + 1 Award = 3).
The next postseason award, Fill-In of the Year, will be released tomorrow.
Voting Results (min. 10%): CB Bucknor (24%), Alan Porter (11%), Bob Davidson (10%).
 |
| Umpire CB Bucknor |
CB Bucknor now has 15 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (2 Previous + 1 Award = 3).
The next postseason award, Fill-In of the Year, will be released tomorrow.
2014 UEFL Awards: Worst Umpire of Year: Tim Welke
The Umpire Ejection Fantasy League announces its postseason awards schedule, beginning with the Worst Umpire of the Year, below, and continuing with Most Improved Umpire, Fill-In, Crew Chief, Honorable, Noteworthy, Ejection(s) of the Year and concluding with Umpire of the Year. 157 total ballots were cast during this year's nominations process.
Pursuant to UEFL Rule 4-4, the postseason Awards distribution now begins with Worst Umpire of the Year.
2014 UEFL Awards: Worst Umpire of the Year: Tim Welke (22) [2013 Winner: Marty Foster]
Voting Results (min. 10%): Tim Welke (14%), Angel Hernandez (13%).
Tim Welke is the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League's 2014 Worst Umpire of the Year. In his 31st Major League Baseball umpiring season, Welke finished 2014 with zero ejections; Welke ejected zero times in 2013 and once in 2012. Welke finished baseball's inaugural season of Replay Review with a .353 Review Affirmation Percentage—11 of his 17 challenged plays were overturned. Early on in the season, Welke served as crew chief for the 2014 Opening Series in Sydney, Australia and officiated his 4,000th MLB game in early April. Welke also was the first plate umpire to have an out call overturned on the auspices of experimental Rule 7.13 regarding catchers blocking home plate and was one of the first umpires to have two of his calls overturned during the same game, on May 1. , UEFL'ers described Welke as declining: "how the once mighty have fallen" and "Enrico Palazzo was better." Several voters pointed to Welke's deficiency as a crew chief, referencing Ejections 101-102: Mark Carlson (2, 3) in Washington, DC. After HP Umpire Carlson ejected a batter for arguing 1B Umpire Welke's check swing call, "Welke stayed at his position at first base and did nothing to help Carlson out." During Carlson's second ejection, Welke likewise remained at first base while MiLB fill-in Clint Fagan walked down to assist: "It just makes Welke look incompetent as a CC."
Tim Welke now has -8 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (-5 Previous + -3 Award = -8).
The next postseason award, Most Improved Umpire of the Year, will be released later tonight.
Pursuant to UEFL Rule 4-4, the postseason Awards distribution now begins with Worst Umpire of the Year.
2014 UEFL Awards: Worst Umpire of the Year: Tim Welke (22) [2013 Winner: Marty Foster]
Voting Results (min. 10%): Tim Welke (14%), Angel Hernandez (13%).
 |
| Umpire Tim Welke |
Tim Welke now has -8 points in the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (-5 Previous + -3 Award = -8).
The next postseason award, Most Improved Umpire of the Year, will be released later tonight.
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