That's Strike 3

Ask five people what a balk is and you'll get five different answers, and most of them will be wrong. This week on That's Strike 3, I'm breaking down the most misunderstood rule in the book, straight from the actual rulebook language. We start with the one thing you have to know before you can even think about calling a balk: is the pitcher in the windup or the set position. That single distinctio...

You're on Day 13 of a 14 day tournament streak. Your body is tired. Your mind doesn't want to be there. And somehow you still have to make good calls. In this episode, we break down the three things that actually keep you functional during the longest stretches of tournament season: 1. Mental Awareness — It's OK to not be having a good time. Accept the grind instead of fighting it. The moment you...

After nearly three decades behind the plate, I've seen it all from catchers. The good, the bad, and the stuff that makes me want to call time and have a conversation. This week is all about catcher icks. The habits, behaviors, and little annoyances that catchers bring to the plate that drive umpires crazy. From framing pitches that bounced in the dirt to turning around to argue balls and strikes,...

In this episode we break down base umpire positioning in the two-man system — where to be, when to be there, and why it matters. What we cover: Position A, B, and C — the right spot for every runner situation Angle over distance — the rule that wins when you can't have both Positioning is visual. Follow along with the MechaniGram diagrams in the 2025-2026 NFHS Baseball Umpires Manual , available a...

Most umpires think they're further along than they actually are. This episode is about what happens when reality checks in. A few years ago, I asked for feedback — genuinely asked for it — thinking I was operating at a level I hadn't actually reached yet. What I got back was tough. Honest. And it forced a decision that every umpire eventually has to make: do you use the feedback to get better, or...

Perfect, that's a great reference. So you want the session note rewritten to match that style — punchy opener, first person, no headers for the talking points, just flowing copy with a "what we cover" bullet list and a bottom line closer? Let me rewrite it: THAT'S STRIKE 3 — End of Season Reflection This season reminded me that growth doesn't announce itself. It shows up quietly, in the middle of...

The NFHS Baseball Rules Committee approved the double first base during their annual meeting in June, with the NFHS Board of Directors signing off shortly after. The base is available for use in the 2026 season and becomes mandatory for all high school baseball programs beginning in 2027. In this episode, we break down the purpose of the rule, how it works, the interference and obstruction implica...

In this episode of That’s Strike 3 , we shift from rules to relationships and focus on what it means to be a good partner on the field. Whether you’re working a two-umpire system or part of a larger crew, strong partnership is what separates a functional game from a well-officiated one. We break down the core elements of effective umpire teamwork — communication, trust, positioning, and knowing wh...

In this episode of That’s Strike 3 , we tackle one of the most misunderstood rules in baseball: what actually constitutes a catch. Using the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) rule book, we break down the criteria umpires use to determine a legal catch — including secure possession, control, and the requirement to maintain that control through contact with the ground. Fro...

Here are the episode notes: That's Strike 3 — Episode 2 "Everyone Saw It But Me" In this episode, we're diving into the mental side of umpiring — specifically, what happens in your head after everything goes sideways on the field. John walks through his first varsity ejection: a close game, a bang-bang play at the plate, and a head coach who wasn't going home quietly. What came next wasn't just ab...

Episode Summary An honest look at the mental and emotional challenges every umpire faces — especially when starting out. This episode sets the tone for the podcast by addressing the real human side of umpiring that nobody talks about. Key Topics Covered Why the mental side of umpiring catches most people off guard Nerves — what they mean and how to work with them The weight of a bad call and why c...

Life Behind Home Plate – Episode: Building Better Relationships with Players and Coaches As umpires, we’re more than just rule enforcers—we’re relationship managers. In this episode, I’m sharing the keys to building trust, respect, and connection with the people on the field who challenge us the most: players and coaches. From clear communication to consistent calls, I’ll break down the small thin...

In this episode, I’m breaking down the myth that there's only one path to success in umpiring. Whether you're calling Little League, high school varsity, or dreaming of college ball, the truth is — each level demands a unique set of skills, mindset, and presence. 🎧 You'll learn: ✅ Why mastering your level is more important than chasing someone else’s ✅ What makes each level—from rec ball to col...

Ever wonder what really goes through an umpire’s mind right before they eject a coach or player? In this episode, we’re stepping into the fire — breaking down the emotion, strategy, and split-second judgment behind one of the most dramatic parts of the game: the ejection. From tense standoffs to dirt-kicking showdowns, I’m sharing real-life stories from behind the plate, what leads up to those unf...

A long baseball season can take a toll on umpires—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether you’re working youth leagues, high school, college, or beyond, staying fresh is key to maintaining your focus and consistency on the field. In this episode of Life Behind Home Plate , we’re diving into the best ways to stay sharp all season long, including: ⚾ How to maintain your physical conditioning...

🎙️ New Episode: Breaking Down Sliding Rules in High School Baseball (NFHS) ⚾️ In this episode of Life Behind Home Plate , we’re taking a deep dive into the sliding rules under NFHS guidelines. Understanding what makes a slide legal—or illegal—can make all the difference in managing a clean and safe game. 💥 What You’ll Learn: ✅ The difference between legal and illegal slides. ✅ How to identify...

I am excited to drop a brand-new episode of Life Behind Home Plate tomorrow! This week, I’m breaking down the first week of the season —and it was a wild one! ⚾️ JV Game Recap: A 31-0 blowout after 4 innings. ⚾️ Varsity Game Recap: A tight 7-5 battle that included 2 ejections for unsportsmanlike language. ⚾️ Key Learnings: How I’m working to be more efficient and effective with game management—...

Welcome to Life Behind Home Plate , the podcast where we dive into the world of baseball umpiring—one call, one game, and one lesson at a time. I'm John, your host, and today we're talking about one of the most critical aspects of umpiring: being a good partner. Umpiring isn’t a solo act. Whether you're working a two-man crew or part of a larger officiating team, your success on the field depends...

Let's break down a check list for a home plate umpire!

🎙️ Welcome to Life Behind Home Plate! ⚾ I’m your host, John, and whether you’re a seasoned umpire, a curious fan, or someone who just loves the quirks of baseball, you’re in the right place. Each episode, we dive into the fascinating—and often bizarre—world of play situations and rules that make our favorite game so unique. Today, we’re tackling three of the strangest scenarios you might see on t...

Umpires, coaches, players, and fans—do you know the difference between obstruction and interference ? 🤔 These two rules are often confused but can make or break a game when the call matters most! In the latest episode of "Behind the Plate," I break down these crucial NFHS rules, share clear definitions, and walk through real-life case plays to help you understand the nuances of each. Whether you'...

🎙️ Welcome to "Life Behind the Plate," the podcast where we step into the world of umpires and uncover what it takes to stand tall behind the dish. Whether you're a seasoned veteran, a rookie behind the plate, or someone just fascinated by the game, this is the place for you. ⚾ As the crack of the bat echoes and the season approaches, we know one truth: a great season starts with a solid pre-seas...

Step into the world of high school baseball umpiring with Life Behind Home Plate . This podcast highlights the rewarding journey of calling balls and strikes, sharing insider stories, tips, and the top reasons why you should consider becoming an umpire. From staying close to the game you love to building confidence and community, discover how life behind home plate is more than just a job—it’s a p...

In this inaugural episode, I introduce the podcast and share my vision for Life Behind Home Plate . Learn what inspired me to start this journey, the types of stories and insights you can expect, and why umpiring is more than just making calls—it’s about confidence, resilience, and a love for the game. Join me as we kick off this adventure together!