How Do You Become An MLB Umpire?
There are only 68 umpires in Major League Baseball and 225 working in the minors. Securing a spot among them is no easy task, though not entirely impossible. If you dream of working as an umpire, these suggestions can set you on the right path. Step 1 Meet the minimum requirements for Major League Baseball umpire candidates: high school diploma or equivalent; 20/20 vision with or without correction; healthy body weight; good coordination and ability to react quickly; good communication skills. Step 2 Attend preliminary training (see Resources below.) Most of those who attend umpire school have never officiated a game prior to attending and must be taught “everything it takes to be an umpire.” Students also learn the proper conduct on and off the field. Step 3 Get noticed by the instructors who are looking for specific characteristics that exceed the knowledge of the game. Some factors include a good voice, forceful calls, confidence and a keen sense of where to go when a ball is hit. S
