The Pregame: An Umpire Classroom Podcast

The NFHS has announced its 2027 high school baseball rules changes, and in this episode of The Pregame, Patrick Faerber breaks down what umpires need to know before they hit the field. We cover the upcoming double first base requirement, the new 18-by-18-inch first base alternative, future bat certification changes, expanded one-way electronic communication, eye black restrictions, electronic scor...

In this episode, Patrick interviews Jeff Gosney, the new NCAA Division I Baseball Umpire Coordinator, in a conversation recorded for Referee Magazine. Gosney recently stepped into the role responsible for overseeing NCAA Division I baseball umpiring, including postseason selections and the continued development of umpires across the country. In this interview, he shares his background in professio...

High school baseball gives umpires a steady stream of situations that challenge both our rules knowledge and our game management. In this episode of The Pregame , I break down three recent high school games I worked over the course of a few days. Each game brought a different set of lessons, from partner communication and positioning to rules interpretations and managing coaches when tensions star...

In this episode of The Pregame , Patrick Faerber checks in for the first time in March as the baseball season gets underway. With basketball season wrapping up, the focus now shifts fully to baseball and getting ready for another year on the field. Patrick also shares updates on new educational content coming out through Referee Magazine , including a new series of one-page mechanics resources des...

Welcome back to The Pregame !In this Mailbag Episode , we dig into your emails and break down real-life situations from the field:⚾ Connor – Ejection report and what could make it stronger📋 Gary – Question about 10-batter lineups and DH rules🧤 Brad – Catcher’s obstruction without a swing👀 Mark – Tricky interference plays at the plateThis episode is sponsored by Diamond MMA and Umpire Classroom...

In this Pregame episode, Patrick answers your mailbag questions—covering everything from pitcher reentry to handling unruly fans—and shares insights on some of the toughest game management situations umpires face. But more importantly, we’re looking ahead: the 2026 Preseason Course is being built now, and we need organizations who are ready to help us change the way umpire education is done. Tradi...

In this episode of The Pregame, Patrick sits down with Bob Leader, veteran umpire and current official's representative on the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee, to break down what’s being considered for the 2026 season. From delayed dead balls to double first bases, player-to-player communication, malicious contact, and more—this is your inside look at how rules are proposed, debated, and decided...

In this episode, Patrick Faerber and Todd discuss one of the wildest second-round playoff series of the GHSA baseball season—and all the lessons it offered for umpires. From check swings to emotional coaches, and even a "shut up" that nearly derailed everything, they break down every key moment and decision from both games. They explore how to manage volatile coaches without losing contr...

The 2025 NFHS Baseball Rules Questionnaire is out — and this episode breaks it all down. Patrick walks through the most talked-about rule changes, the most controversial survey items, and gives honest feedback on what’s working… and what’s really not. From pace of play concerns and expanded use of tech, to the ongoing dugout drama of bench jockeying and how much eye black is too much — nothing is...

In this episode of The Pregame by Umpire Classroom , Patrick Faerber sits down with Jesse Fagan, a seasoned umpire and recent Referee Magazine contributor, to talk about the nuances of umpiring across different rule sets. They break down the critical differences between NFHS, NCAA, OBR, and Little League , and why umpires must be adaptable when switching between them. They also discuss: 🔹 Why rul...

In this episode of Umpire Classroom , Patrick Faerber sits down with NCAA Division 1 umpire Frank Barlow to discuss game management, working with coaches, and the importance of professionalism on the field. Frank shares his journey from officiating in Japan to calling games at the highest levels of college baseball. They break down key strategies for handling heated situations, the role of non-cal...

Welcome to another episode of the Umpire Classroom Podcast! In this special installment, I sit down with my friend, Bill Ward—a high school and collegiate umpire from Alabama, known for his facebook alias, Bama Umpire. We tackle some of the top questions submitted by listeners, covering crucial NFHS baseball rules and scenarios. Topics Discussed: - When to kill a play for injuries and how to handl...

Join us for an incredible conversation with George Drouches, NCAA National Coordinator of Baseball Umpires! In this episode, George shares his journey in sports officiating, insights into the evolution of college baseball umpiring, and the NCAA’s initiatives to elevate the profession. We discuss mentorship, pathways for new umpires, and the NCAA’s Prospect Camp as a gateway for those aspiring to b...

In this episode, we’re kicking off 2025 with a detailed preview of what’s coming to Umpire Classroom and Referee Magazine this month. From NFHS baseball rules changes to mechanics breakdowns and exciting new guest segments, this is your ultimate guide to starting the year right as an umpire. 🔗 Important Links: Baseball Umpire Network of Trainers (BUNT): www.facebook.com/groups/umpiretraining/ 202...

In this episode, Patrick Faerber introduces the Baseball Umpire Network of Trainers (BUNT), a groundbreaking initiative to connect and support umpire trainers and assigners across the country. Learn how BUNT can help improve education, share resources, and transform the way we prepare umpires for the game. Want more? Slides and additional resources are available in the YouTube version of this epis...

Welcome back to the Umpire Classroom Podcast! Join your host, Patrick Faerber, in a fascinating episode discussing a unique substitution scenario from a recent collegiate summer game. Today, we explore the intricacies of unannounced substitutions and their implications on the game, providing a deep dive into the rules that govern these situations across different leagues. In this episode, Patrick...

In this episode, I discuss working the recent Georgia 11u State Championship for Little League. We'll break down why traditional positions might offer better calls on bases and how Little League variations can impact gameplay. From handling tricky pickle plays to maintaining proper footwork for catch/no-catch calls, we uncover the nuances of umpiring at this vibrant level of baseball. For umpires...

In this episode of the Pre-Game, host Patrick Faerber tackles the age-old wisdom 'Comparison is the thief of joy' through the lens of sports officiating. Drawing from personal experiences and insights from the world of umpiring, Faerber explores how the trap of comparison can rob officials of their passion and purpose. But the real gem of this episode? An unexpected connection between comedy legen...

In this episode, Patrick explores the subtle yet impactful techniques that can transform how umpires handle games, focusing on the importance of the basics and reading catchers effectively. With the regular season wrapping up and playoffs approaching, Patrick reflects on recent games, sharing personal experiences and lessons that emphasize the core skills every umpire should master. Tune in for an...

Dive into a unique exploration of umpiring essentials and overlooked strategies in this insightful episode. Patrick shares vital tips for first-year umpires, emphasizing the importance of feedback and personal improvement to elevate their officiating skills. From the intricacies of hand mechanics to handling unexpected situations on the field, this episode is packed with wisdom not only for newcom...

In this episode of "The Pregame: An Umpire Classroom Podcast," Patrick Faerber shares insights from his own umpiring experiences and evaluates common mechanics and situations faced by umpires at various levels. Patrick discusses the importance of mastering the pivot mechanic from the A position to enhance performance on the field and stand out during evaluations, especially for those aiming for de...

In the inaugural episode of "The Pregame: An Umpire Classroom Podcast," Patrick Faerber opens the door to a new form of engagement with umpires across all levels. Delving into his extensive experience, Patrick shares insights from his journey through high school, collegiate, and professional umpiring, highlighting the lessons learned and the passion that drives him to educate and improve the umpir...