- Sat Jan 25, 2025 3:56 pm
#4751
Have you ever thought about the unsung heroes of baseball—the umpires? Larry Gerlach's recent work, Lion of the League: Bob Emslie and the Evolution of the Baseball Umpire, has just won the 2025 SABR Seymour Medal, and it’s sparking some fascinating discussions about the role of umpires in the game.
Emslie, a largely forgotten figure, played a pivotal role in shaping the standards of umpiring from the early days of professional baseball through the 1930s. This book not only dives into his biography but also explores the evolution of umpiring itself and offers a rare look into the history of minor league baseball.
What do you think about the importance of umpires in the game? Are they given the recognition they deserve, or are they often overlooked? With the rise of technology and instant replay, how do you see the role of umpires changing in the future?
Moreover, Gerlach makes a compelling case for Emslie’s induction into the Hall of Fame. Do you believe umpires should be considered for such honors, or should the focus remain solely on players?
Let’s discuss! What are your thoughts on the evolution of umpiring, the impact of figures like Bob Emslie, and the future of officiating in baseball?
Emslie, a largely forgotten figure, played a pivotal role in shaping the standards of umpiring from the early days of professional baseball through the 1930s. This book not only dives into his biography but also explores the evolution of umpiring itself and offers a rare look into the history of minor league baseball.
What do you think about the importance of umpires in the game? Are they given the recognition they deserve, or are they often overlooked? With the rise of technology and instant replay, how do you see the role of umpires changing in the future?
Moreover, Gerlach makes a compelling case for Emslie’s induction into the Hall of Fame. Do you believe umpires should be considered for such honors, or should the focus remain solely on players?
Let’s discuss! What are your thoughts on the evolution of umpiring, the impact of figures like Bob Emslie, and the future of officiating in baseball?