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Explore every episode of the podcast The Hammer An Umpire Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for The Hammer An Umpire Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Going with the Ebb & Flow25 Aug 202400:18:56

In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses 2025 NCAA & NFHS rules changes.


Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic twice. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also worked a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series, and MVC non-con games. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and two NCAA Division III Regionals. In 2023, Kevin worked the NJCAA Division III, Region 12 tournament, and the MIAA Tournament. Additionally, Kevin has worked the MHSAA State Finals three times (2015, 2019, & 2023). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning varsity MHSAA baseball games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Moving Up the Ladder 25 Jun 202400:33:37

In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses the ABS system, 4-man mechanics, Angel Hernandez, and how to move up the ladder.

Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic twice. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also worked a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series, and MVC non-con games. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and two NCAA Division III Regionals. In 2023, Kevin worked the NJCAA Division III, Region 12 tournament, and the MIAA Tournament. Additionally, Kevin has worked the MHSAA State Finals three times (2015, 2019, & 2023). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning varsity MHSAA baseball games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.


Seek to improve each game: this is the way.07 May 202300:37:32

In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses pace of play, infield fly rule, runner’s lane rule, seeking evaluations, and 3-man at youth levels.

Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also worked a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series, and MVC non-con games. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. In 2023, Kevin worked the NJCAA Division III, Region 12 tournament, and the MIAA Tournament. Additionally, Kevin has worked the MHSAA State Finals three times (2015, 2019, & 2023). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.


Windy City NCAA Baseball Talk17 Jan 202300:22:42
In this episode, host Kevin Weber gives a recap of the 2023 NCAA/CBUA Meeting in Chicago. He discusses a conference meeting and the general meeting. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series, and MVC non-con games. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Let’s Talk Rule Book Changes 07 Jan 202300:44:32
In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses NFHS 2023 points of emphasis, NFHS 2023 rule changes, 2-man bases empty shallow fly ball mechanics, an umpire spotlight, strike zone, and assigning dos and don’ts. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Merry Blizzmas!23 Dec 202200:52:10
Host Kevin Weber answers a listener voicemail about plate meetings, discusses the new national standard strike zone initiative, gives a two-part NCAA rules test, and discusses the changes to the 20 Second Action Clock rule. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Excellence is What You Do Next30 Oct 202200:38:30
In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses NCAA rules changes, the new RQ+ platform, Big-Timing, and spotlights umpire Perry Costello. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Doane 2-Man Camp - Day 319 Sep 202200:13:34
Host Kevin Weber shares his observations from the final day of the Doane 2-Man Umpire Camp. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Doane 2-Man Camp - Day 217 Sep 202200:13:52
Host Kevin Weber shares his observations from the second day of the Doane 2-Man Umpire Camp. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Doane 2-Man Camp - Day 117 Sep 202200:13:48

Host Kevin Weber shares his observations from the first day of the Doane 2-Man Umpire Camp.


Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

We Don't Want an "Ump Show"15 Jul 202200:54:47

In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses umpire observations and answers listener questions, specifically NFHS rules changes, pickoff plays at first base, and MHSAA Finals and local tournament observations.

Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Can You Take the Heat?15 Jun 202200:38:40
Host Kevin Weber answers emails from Dan Steinberg, Kevin Banes, and Kevin Frenia on a variety of topics including lineups, batter interference and two-man mechanics. Kevin also gives an update on his 2022 season. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
He Still Lives!11 Jun 202400:22:31
Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic twice. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also worked a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series, and MVC non-con games. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and two NCAA Division III Regionals. In 2023, Kevin worked the NJCAA Division III, Region 12 tournament, and the MIAA Tournament. Additionally, Kevin has worked the MHSAA State Finals three times (2015, 2019, & 2023). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning varsity MHSAA baseball games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Not Everyone Can Be The Beatles05 May 202200:40:52
In this episode, Kevin Weber answers listener questions about check swings, 2-man mechanics, controlling dugouts, pace of play, called 3rd strike mechanics and arguing coaches. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. He also recently worked his first postseason collegiate games. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
It's Time to Prove Yourself Again11 Mar 202200:58:31
In this episode, Kevin Weber talks about 3-man mechanics, working the wedge, chirping coaches, and new umpire questions. Kevin also discusses listeners emails and presents an exclusive interview with David Hedges, who attended Wendelstedt Pro School early this year. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. He also recently worked his first postseason collegiate games. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assignor role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Dig Into Those Rulebooks09 Jan 202201:10:17
In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses rule changes and points of emphasis for NCAA and NFHS baseball. Also, Kevin answers listener emails from Scott Ordway, Robert Fobian, and David Emerling. Dig into those rulebooks because the testing season is upon us! Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also scheduled to work Big Ten Conference and Horizon League non-con games in 2022. He also recently worked his first postseason collegiate games. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assignor role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Start Perfect...then Get Better14 Oct 202100:58:07
In this episode, host Kevin Weber revisits his comments on the Little League World Series, answers a question about handling hit by pitches, gives a FED umpire quiz, shares his observations from instructing at the Doane Umpire Camp, and spotlights umpire George Magerkurth. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He also recently worked his first postseason collegiate games. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assignor role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Get Ahead by Getting Started24 Sep 202101:10:06

In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses observations on novice umpires, a uniform checklist for camps and clinics, and answers several listener questions on Deep B vs Deep C, calling balls and strikes, and dealing with injuries. 


Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He also recently worked his first postseason collegiate games. Additionally, Kevin has twice worked the MHSAA State Finals (2015 & 2019). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assignor role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Umpire for the Ball and NOT the Player30 Aug 202100:43:21
In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses new COVID-19 protocols in college baseball, Robert Fobian's email calling strikes and men's leagues, Scott Ordway's email about check swings, and Steve Dobek's Facebook Messenger message about ejections and bench jockeying.
Keep Your Eyes Forever on the Ball03 Aug 202100:55:09
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses observations he's made when observing new umpires, spotlights Bernice Gera, and reviews his experience at the CBUA 4-Man Invite Evaluation Camp in Indianapolis.
Passing the Torch19 Jun 202100:40:36
In this episode, host Kevin Weber answers some listener's emails concerning visibility situations and the Mt. Rushmore of umpires. Also, Bruce Doane, Jr. is featured in an umpire spotlight, as well as Kevin's thoughts on umpires working 3 and 4 man mechanics who aren't familiar with the systems.
Slow Train28 May 202101:06:11
Kevin Weber is finally back with a new episode. Listen to segments on what’s been happen in his absence from the podcast airwaves, collegiate umpiring in 2021, listener questions, and an umpire spotlight.
All’s Well That Ends Well25 Oct 202000:50:16
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses umpire camps, 2021-2022 NCAA Major Rules Changes, and spotlights umpire Randy Christal.
The Age of Accountability 10 Oct 202300:24:07

In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses the age of assessment and accountability in umpiring, how to have a good relationship with your assigner, changes in CCA 3-man mechanics, and a poll for the greatest umpire in history.


Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic twice. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also worked a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series, and MVC non-con games. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. In 2023, Kevin worked the NJCAA Division III, Region 12 tournament, and the MIAA Tournament. Additionally, Kevin has worked the MHSAA State Finals three times (2015, 2019, & 2023). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning varsity MHSAA baseball games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.


An Umpire Only Has So Much Shelf Life15 Oct 202000:37:52
In this episode, host Kevin Weber discussing mentoring and retaining umpires, his recent experience at Central Michigan University, interesting play from a fellow umpire, and the state of college baseball for 2021.
Reach for the Stars07 Oct 202000:32:51
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses goals and his experience at the Bruce Doane Sr. Midwest Three-Man Invitational Camp.
Try to Be a Stoic Umpire23 Aug 202001:02:44
In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses stoicism in umpiring, COVID mechanics and strike zones, assigning philosophy, and umpire equipment.
Hammering Through 202016 Aug 202000:47:22
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses listener questions and the state of high school sports.
Trying to See 202008 Aug 202000:43:47
In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses the recent state of Major League Baseball, recent umpiring observations, updates the state of officiating in the pandemic and poses three quiz questions.
Back in the Saddle Again28 Jun 202000:40:51
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses how his first two weeks of post-stay at home order umpiring went. Also, he talks about tips and observations for newer umpires and things with which veteran umpires can help assist them.
Post Pandemic Umpiring07 Jun 202000:57:38
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses returning to play procedures, Iowa high school umpiring, umpire etiquette, basic 4-man mechanics, and spotlights Cuban umpiring.
Be a Pitcher's Umpire31 May 202000:50:58
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses 2-man mechanics, strike zones, and spotlights Negro League umpires.
You Can't Do That! U.S.A.24 May 202000:51:44
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses the potential schedule changes for NCAA baseball, umpire game fees across the United States, and spotlight long-time NL umpire Ernie Quigley.
Living in a Dead Ball Era17 May 202000:48:56
In this episode, host Kevin Weber discusses habits to get back in shape, game management, Deadball Era umpire innovations and spotlights Gerry Davis.
2023 Doane 3-man Days 2 & 302 Oct 202300:11:47

Happenings on days 2 & 3 of the 2023 Doane 3-Man Camp.

Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic twice. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also worked a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series, and MVC non-con games. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. In 2023, Kevin worked the NJCAA Division III, Region 12 tournament, and the MIAA Tournament. Additionally, Kevin has worked the MHSAA State Finals three times (2015, 2019, & 2023). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning varsity MHSAA baseball games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Interview Highlights Special 10 May 202001:22:23

In this episode, Kevin Weber highlights past interviews with Tim Farwig, Matt Watkoski, Kirk Weber, and Kirk VanderLaan.

Give 'em the heave-ho03 May 202000:41:04
In this episode, Kevin Weber gives an update on officials' unemployment benefits, discusses the history of the ejection, and spotlights AL umpire, Steve Palermo.
Brushing Off the Plate26 Apr 202000:42:30
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses the art of brushing off the plate, revisits the NFHS Player/DH rule, and spotlights Charlie Berry.
Automatic for the People19 Apr 202000:35:00
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses automated strike zones, talks about the NFHS restriction rule, revisits an infield fly situation, and spotlights Jon Bible
Keep Pre-gaming13 Apr 202000:40:35
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses self-employment COVID-19 relief, answers Todd Skeen's unique question on infield flies, responds to Troy Webb's email, and spotlights umpire Cy Rigler. Leave a voicemail for the show or contact me by email or Facebook. email: spinalfusion06@yahoo.com Facebook: @thehammerpodcast
Keep Calling Strikes05 Apr 202000:33:29
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses the Federal stimulus bill for independent contractors, using indicators, passing runners, the final five questions of the MHSAA Postseason Exam, and spotlights MLB umpire Eric Cooper.
The Man Who Won't Die on Third29 Mar 202000:45:22
In this episode, Kevin Weber looks at the Coronavirus Bill and what it means to independent contractors, talks about dealing with Loss & Grief, answers Gyula Operhal's voicemail, challenges listens with five more MHSAA Exam questions and spotlights American League umpire, George Moriarty.
The $15,000,000 Rainout23 Mar 202000:51:47
In this episode, Kevin Weber speaks with fellow umpire Kirk VanderLaan, discusses the $15,000,000 rainout, continues the MHSAA Baseball Umpire Exam, talks pick off plays at first base in 2-man, and spotlights former MLB umpire Jim Joyce.
There's No Crying in Baseball16 Mar 202000:41:50
In this episode, Kevin Weber gives his takes on the Coronavirus pandemic, discusses part three of the MHSAA baseball umpires exam, and spotlights NL umpire Babe Pinelli. 
Don't Be THAT Guy08 Mar 202000:40:35
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses dealing with bad apple umpires, controlling dugouts, how NOT to be on and off the field, MHSAA Umpire Exam questions 6-10, and spotlights NL umpire Tom Gorman.
2023 Doane 3-Man Camp Day 130 Sep 202300:09:30
Happenings on day 1 of the 2023 Doane 3-Man Camp. Kevin has been umpiring since his high school days, however, he’s been working consistently in amateur baseball since 2006. His story is the tale of what umpire camps and perseverance can accomplish. Kevin demonstrates that the umpire camp route is an alternative to the professional umpire school path. His road to success has been through self-study, camps, and clinics, most notably Bruce Doane’s camps. Kevin has attended the Doane February camp, 2-man advanced camp, and 3-man camp on multiple occasions. He also attended the CBUA 4-Man Invitation Clinic twice. Kevin has worked high school (MHSAA), JUCO (MCCAA), NAIA (WHAC/Crossroads), and NCAA Division I (MAC) (Horizon) (MVC), II (GLIAC), and III (MIAA) contests. He's also worked a Big Ten Conference non-con game in 2023 along with MAC and Horizon League series, and MVC non-con games. In 2022, Kevin worked the GLIAC NCAA DII Conference tournament and the NCAA Division III Regionals. In 2023, Kevin worked the NJCAA Division III, Region 12 tournament, and the MIAA Tournament. Additionally, Kevin has worked the MHSAA State Finals three times (2015, 2019, & 2023). He is always trying to hone his umpire skills to continue moving up the umpiring ladder. Recently, Kevin took on an assigner role, assigning MHSAA games for the West Michigan Umpire Association and tournament and travel team games for the Grand Rapids Umpire Alliance. He is happily married, has one daughter, and teaches high school Social Studies and English in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Making "The Game"01 Mar 202001:05:23
In this episode, Kevin Weber interviews minor league umpire Matt Watkoski, discusses four tips for talking to coaches, reviews five questions for the MHSAA NFHS Postseason Exam, spotlights umpires in the state of Michigan, and gives an attitude pep talk.
Silence Can't Be Quoted23 Feb 202000:56:51
In this episode, Kevin Weber talks about responding to players, social media guidelines, getting paid, uniforms & equipment, MLB rules changes, and spotlights AL umpire Bill Dinneen.
Drawing a Line16 Feb 202000:58:58
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses the line drawing ejection in the Michigan-Vanderbilt game, handling ejections, responding to coaches, the NFHS Player/DH rule, and spotlights John McSherry.
The Call10 Feb 202000:49:28
In this episode, Kevin Weber discusses Types of Arguers, the NFHS Player/DH rule, calling pitches at the University of Michigan, and spotlights AL umpire Don Denkinger.
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