I don’t like umpires.  Wait, that isn’t entirely true.  I have a little crush on Laz Diaz (both because I think he’s adorable and I think he could crush you using only one hand) but, for the most part, I’m not a big fan. Even though I’m not a fan of the umpires, it’s easy to understand that they pretty much do the best job that they can.  For some umpires that works out better than others. When you think about the fact that folks who decide they want to be an umpire (or referee or any other kind of sports officiator) know that they are in for a career of low pay, lousy hours and almost complete disrespect.  It takes a certain kind of personality to become an umpire and it takes a strong constitution to become successful at it.  This I can respect. I hate when the “human element” comes into play and has a negative impact on a game.  Jim Joyce, buy most accounts, is a wonderful person and someone many MLB players consider to actually be good at his job as a Major League umpire…but his name will forever be burned in my mind as the [...]

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