The Short Umpire | Season 1: Bottom of the 1st cover art

The Short Umpire | Season 1: Bottom of the 1st

The Short Umpire | Season 1: Bottom of the 1st

Listen for free

View show details

About this listen

Host: Russ Riba | Baseball Ready

In this fun yet heartfelt follow-up to “Top of the First,” Russ Riba returns with another baseball-themed rant, spotlighting the real MVPs of youth sports: the parents (that’s sarcasm!). From the chaos in the stands to an unforgettable viral moment featuring a vertically challenged umpire who finally had enough, this episode dives into the tension (and comedy) of grown-ups behaving badly on the baseball field.

Russ breaks down a heated viral clip, unpacks the pressure umpires face, and calls out the sideline "coaches" who can’t help shouting advice during every pitch. Whether you're a parent, a coach, or just love the game, Russ challenges you to sit back, zip it, and let the kids play. Plus: The world’s worst baseball riddle makes a return—because apparently, you people like it.

Key takeaway: Be passionate, not problematic. Respect the game, the umpires, and most of all—the kids.

No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.