Question of the Day!

   Training Topic of the Day!

Rule #: 1 Topic: Uniforms & Equipment Sub: Baseballs NFHS: 1-3-1 OBR: Available Attachments: No Attachments Want access to many more topics? Click here to learn more about becoming a Member! Baseballs are generally provided by the Home Team unless other arrangements have been made. Most associations require some specific brand and model of "official" baseball, bearing a given logo. Three baseballs are required by NFHS rules to start the game and 2 baseballs bust be available to the umpire to complete a game. As of January 1, 2020 baseballs used in games played under NFHS rules require a "NOCSAE Approved" marking. Before the game, the umpires should rub the gloss off the game baseballs with a light, wet mixture of baseball rubbing mud. When done correctly, the baseball will remain white and not appear dirty or used with only the "sheen" diminished. Baseballs that are cut, split, lopsided, severely discolored or illegally doctored should be removed from the game immediately. Baseballs that are wet, should be replaced on the field and dried (rubbed in hands or towel by the home team) prior to being returned to play. Anytime a pitcher requests a new baseball, and one is available, it should be given to him. The game should never be delayed waiting for a preferred baseball to be returned to the pitcher or field of play.

   Got what it takes? Become a Member!

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PBUmpires is always looking for people interested in learning how to umpire above the youth baseball level and join the premier umpire assocation in the Tampa Bay area. We form New Umpire Clinics each Fall and Spring.  New Member training sessions have been held at Spectrum Field (formerly Brighthouse Field) in St. Petersburg and regular meetings and field clinics are generally held in Pasco County.

New Member training sessions consist a day (or series of week nights) of presentations and discussions learning baseball rules and how to apply them. You'll learn that most TV commentators are wrong about the rules quite often.  A second day (or series of week nights) will be dedicated to learning on the field, the 60', 70' and standard baseball field mechanics and the subtle differences between them. A third day will be spent umpiring games being mentored by highly experienced high school, collegiate and professionally experienced umpires dedicated to passing on the best information and skills of the craft to the next generation. Upon demonstrating a sound aptitude for the game and officiating it, you'll be invited to attend the New Member Orientation where you'll assume the mantle of PBUmpire!

Umpires certified by the FHSAA or another similar state high school certification organization, may be invited to attend the "Try Out Day", based on their level of certification and documented experience.

What we provide our members:

• Superior rules, contemporary field mechanics and professional game management training.
• Continuing Professional Education via:
  
  • Professional quality online member portal:
  • Rules and association resources.
  • Rules and mechanics presentations, quizzes, games and videos.
  • Association News, Event Schedule, Photo Roster, Photo Gallery, Video Gallery, Blog and Online Store.
• Minimum of 10 member meetings and clinics led by collegiate & professional level umpires.
  
• Objective online evaluation program with guidance to improve to the next level.
• Game Assignment Opportunities (based on evaluated ability):
  • Select youth and adult league and travel baseball in Pasco, Pinellas and Hernando Counties;
  • High School Baseball in Pasco and Hernando Counties;
  • High School Baseball District, Regional and State Playoffs;
  • MiLB Spring Training Baseball in Pasco, Hillsboro and Pinellas Counties;

We welcome all who have an interest joining PBUmpires and: are at least 16 years of age; own or can obtain necessary equipment and uniforms; own or have access to reliable transportation; have the desire to learn how and effectively umpire to superior standards. 1. Click the Become a Member image (left) and submit an online application. 2. Attend all the new member training, clinics and evaluation sessions. 3. Pass the baseball rules exam and field evaluation and you're on the field!

Upcoming 6 Meeting/Training Events: