That's Strike 3

About

That's Strike 3 is a weekly podcast from the Evergreen Baseball Umpires Association covering the complete life of a baseball umpire. Each episode runs about 10 minutes and tackles the things that actually matter on the field — rules knowledge, game mechanics, mental toughness, handling coaches, and the personal challenges no one warns you about when you start. Whether you're brand new to umpiring or a seasoned veteran, this is the show that meets you where you are.

Episodes

• Episode 4: Being a Good Partner 2026-05-06

  This episode of That's Strike 3 explores what it means to be a good partner on the field for umpires. It discusses the core elements of effective umpire teamwork, including communication, trust, positioning, and knowing when to get help, f…

• Episode 3: That's a Catch 2026-04-29

  This episode of That's Strike 3 discusses the baseball catch rule. It uses the NFHS rule book to explain the criteria umpires use to determine a legal catch.

• Episode 2: Everyone Saw It But Me 2026-04-22

  This episode of That's Strike 3 discusses the mental side of umpiring, specifically how to cope after a challenging moment on the field. It covers strategies for umpires to reset and maintain focus under pressure.

• Episode 1: The Struggle Is Real 2026-04-15

  This episode of That's Strike 3 discusses the mental and emotional challenges faced by umpires, particularly when starting out. It covers topics such as managing nerves, dealing with bad calls, and the importance of community support.

• Building Better Relationships with Players and Coache 2025-05-04

  This episode of That's Strike 3 discusses how umpires can build better relationships with players and coaches. It covers strategies for building trust, respect, and connection, including clear communication and consistent calls.

• What Level Are You Really Umpiring For? 2025-04-23

  This episode of That's Strike 3 explores the various levels of umpiring, from recreational leagues to college. It highlights that each level demands a unique set of skills and mindset, and emphasizes the importance of mastering one's curre…

• “You’re Outta Here! The Story Behind Ejections” 2025-04-10

  This episode discusses the factors involved in umpire ejections in baseball, including emotion, strategy, and judgment. It provides insights and stories from an umpire's perspective on why and how ejections occur.

• Staying Fresh Through a Long Baseball Season 2025-04-02

  This episode of That's Strike 3 discusses how umpires can stay fresh throughout a long baseball season. It covers physical and mental strategies, the importance of rest and recovery, and building a support system.

• Life Behind Home Plate: Breaking Down Sliding Rules in High School Baseball (NFHS) 2025-03-26

  This episode discusses sliding rules in high school baseball according to NFHS guidelines. It covers the distinctions between legal and illegal slides, how to identify and manage malicious contact, and positioning tips for umpires.

• Lessons from the First Week: Blowouts, Ejections, and Managing the Game 2025-03-19

  This episode recaps the first week of baseball season, including game results, ejections, and strategies for efficient game management. It also covers Rule 3.4 regarding charged conferences.

• Be a Great Partner 2025-03-12

  This episode of "That's Strike 3" discusses the critical role of partnership in baseball umpiring. It covers building trust, clear communication, and supporting fellow umpires for a better game experience.

• Baseball season is here! 2025-03-04

  This episode discusses a checklist for a home plate umpire. It covers what an umpire needs to consider for the baseball season.

• Common Rule Myths 2025-01-16

  This episode clarifies common baseball rule myths and unusual in-game scenarios. It aims to clear up confusion surrounding misapplied rules, including double-plays and tag-up situations.

• Obstruction vs. Interference 2025-01-10

  This episode of That's Strike 3 discusses the differences between obstruction and interference in baseball. It covers NFHS rules and provides case plays for understanding these concepts.

• Getting Ready for the Season 2025-01-03

  This episode of "That's Strike 3" focuses on pre-season preparation for umpires. It covers sharpening mechanics, reviewing the rulebook, and ensuring physical and mental readiness for the upcoming season.

• Episode 2: Why become an umpire? 2024-12-18

  This episode explores high school baseball umpiring. It discusses the rewarding journey of calling balls and strikes, offering insider stories, tips, and reasons to consider becoming an umpire.

• Episode 1 - Welcome 2024-12-10

  This inaugural episode introduces the podcast, its vision, and the inspiration behind it. The host outlines the types of stories and insights listeners can expect, focusing on umpiring as more than just making calls.