Someone asked about plate conferences at the Penhold clinic. Here is a roadmap for holding the plate conference 5 minutes before the start of the game.
A Pre-game Conference needs to take place before each game.
It establishes the tone that you want set. It is important that the home team does not take the field until after the Pre-game Conference is over.
The Plate Umpire leads the conference in a pleasant yet businesslike manner making sure that they treat all the team representatives equally, regardless of whether they know either or both coaches.
If the coaches do not know each other, have them introduce themselves.
Introduce your partner and yourself.
- Look at each line-up card, making sure that the names, numbers, and positions are listed.
- Check that, if a Designated Player is used, that they are listed somewhere in the first nine spots in the batting order and that the Flex player is listed in the 10th spot in the batting order.
- If required, check that the coach has signed the line-up card.
- Ask the coach if he is satisfied with his line up.
- If he agrees, tell him that it is now official.
- Do the same with the other coach.
- Review the ground rules. Start on the third base side of home plate and go clockwise around the field until back to home plate.
- Ask if either team has any questions.
- Remind the teams to hustle at all times.
- Then wish good luck to both teams and shake hands with the coaches.
- When the coaches have left, check if there is anything else you and your partner need to discuss.
- Then both umpires hustle to their positions.