The called 3rd strike is one of the last remaining bastions of independence for Umpires. If you’re like me you admire the guys who have a great one. Unfortunately, I’ve always looked pretty bad with mine. I’ve practiced it in the mirror, tried different things on the field and worked on trying it with one vocalization or two…all to no avail. I still suck at it.
If you struggle with the same thing, this montage will make you feel better. We’ve scoured YouTube, Vimeo and other video websites for the best of the worst strike three mechanics (and even included some Tom Hallion).
Who’s your favorite? Did we miss any gems?
Gotta like the Adam Sandler umpire, with the dance on strike 3. My personal favorite in the bigs is Ken Kiser. A simple little jab punch to the gut, but yet unique.
I love the Umpire from Central Park. I especially love that his right hand goes up in the air after just about every pitch, even if he is saying “no, that’s high that’s a ball”.
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Umpires who go beyond the act of making a clear call are guilty of showing players up. They are usually the same guys who punish a team with phantom calls, etc. if they think the team has shown them up.
I hate umpires who put the focus on themselves. Prima donnas.