Spring Training is a time where up and coming players get the chance to showcase their skills for a possible roster spot on an MLB team, the same goes for the umpires. Angels MVP Mike Trout appears to have the helping hand as he is giving away a helpful suggestion that will help young umpires in the industry.
Reports from ESPN’s Buster Olney showed that the two-time MVP suggested that officials should only run five or six innings during Spring Training, and turn over the last innings to umpires who are a work in progress.
This is a great idea as it gives umpires the experience needed to become better at their profession. A couple of veteran umpires went on to talk to Olney about the suggestion as they praised the idea.
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Trout’s suggestion was loved so far by the baseball officials and may be brought to attention closer towards the next Spring Training.
Of course, I have to agree that the suggestion is a great one. As Olney notes, the turnover rate for umpires every year is relatively low, so younger, less-experienced umpires have few opportunities to get a feel for what it’s like calling major league action. Even beyond the actual interpretation of the rules, interacting with big league personalities would also be helpful for minor league umpires.