Umpire Equipment

The first professional umpire in baseball was William McLean. In 1879, the president of the National League appointed 20 men as the first umpiring staff. Clubs and teams could choose from these 20 individuals, marking the beginning of professional umpiring in baseball. At the time, each home team had to pay $5 to the referees. Early referees had little to no protection. Today, all MLB umpires wear extensive protective gear to ensure their safety during games.

Umpire Role

In a baseball game, there are typically two or more umpires. The head umpire stands behind home plate and is responsible for overseeing the entire game. This umpire is the one who calls balls and strikes and makes the majority of the calls regarding the batter and baserunners near home plate.

Umpires are crucial in both baseball and softball and are required to wear protective equipment. There are even umpire schools where aspiring referees are trained. For example, the Wendelstedt Umpire School offers education from some of the most experienced and respected umpires in the game. Baseball is a sport that demands great attention to detail, which is why it typically involves more than one umpire per game.

Umpire Protection

Protection gear is a must for baseball umpires, just as it is for players. Umpires are exposed to the same risks as players, with the added responsibility of making critical calls under pressure. This makes safety a priority.

Umpire gear includes:

• Chest Protectors: To shield the chest from errant pitches or foul balls.

• Shin Guards: To protect the legs from low or foul balls that can cause significant pain.

• Leg Guards: Specialized protective gear for the legs, preventing injuries from high-speed pitches or base runners.

• Mask and Helmet: Umpires wear a mask with a cage to protect their face, jaw, cheeks, and chin. The wide frame also provides protection for the ears, while the extended bottom part shields the throat. The curved padding on the forehead offers added protection and comfort.

While most MLB umpires wear helmets, some may opt for a cap instead, depending on the game and their personal preference. Regardless of the specific gear, all protective equipment is vital to ensure umpire safety.

Materials Used in Umpire Equipment

The materials used in umpire protective gear are designed to provide comfort while offering maximum safety.

• Chest Protectors: These are typically made from hard plastic and PE plates for superior protection. The back of the chest protector is often lined with foam for added comfort.

• Shin Guards: Modern shin guards are made from a mix of synthetic materials, plastic, and metal. The construction ensures both flexibility and durability, offering optimal protection against foul balls and impacts.

• Umpire Masks: Most umpire face masks are constructed from ABS plastic, known for its durability and lightweight properties. The inside is padded with foam to ensure comfort and prevent injury from impacts during the game.