MLB Umpires To Address Fans With Replay Results, Explanations Via Microphones In 2020
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- MLB umpires will have some new duties when Opening Day rolls around this Spring.
According to ESPN's Pedro Gomez, MLB umpires will now have to address the fans watching in the stands and on television just like NFL referees when explaining replays and calls.
"New for the 2020 MLB season: Much like NFL referees have done for years, umpires will be mic'd up and tell fans in attendance and those watching on television and listening on radio if reviewed calls are upheld or overturned. They may also explain rules, if necessary."
New for the 2020 MLB season: Much like NFL referees have done for years, umpires will be mic'd up and tell fans in attendance and those watching on television and listening on radio if reviewed calls are upheld or overturned. They may also explain rules, if necessary.
— The Pedro Gomez Foundation (@PGFoundation_) January 27, 2020
Just like the NFL, only the head referee will be getting on the public address microphone.
"And my understanding is it will be the crew chiefs only who will be mic'd up."
And my understanding is it will be the crew chiefs only who will be mic'd up.
— The Pedro Gomez Foundation (@PGFoundation_) January 27, 2020
Ever since video replay has been implemented into the MLB, all the crew chief would have to do when a ruling was made was signal with his hand, usually an "out" or "safe" call.