One vs. Two Umpire Mechanics: Pros, Cons & Cost Analysis

Question
I have a boss who wants to cut costs and go to one man softball mechanics.  I dont like it.  So i am looking for an intelligent pro vs con rebuttal for him.  Thanks, Mike

Answer
Hi Michael,

Well 2 umpires are more expensive than 1 there's no doubt about that and usually the team cost is around double for x amount of games, so a lot of it depends on how much the teams are willing to pay.  I would certainly poll the teams to find out what they want.

1 man as you know is the hardest umpiring there is.  1 person can't possibly see everything and no doubt the game is less well officiated than w/ 2 or 3.  Also umpire knowledge and skill is important.  With 2 umpires if one is "weak" hopefully the other is more experienced again leading to a better game.  2 "strong" umpires make it much better. Also strong umpires continue to improve by working with strong partners.

With 2 man a newer or less experienced umpire gets to learn and improve, something that's very difficult to acquire if you work by yourself.  1 man even with a strong umpire can lead to bad habits and shortcuts that will hurt the umpire in tournament play.  I believe only doing 1 man will ultimately hurt the umpiring program.

Mark