On a night when the Cubs finally lost two games in a row, the announcers had to find something to talk about. They spent considerable time discussing Joe West, a legendary umpire. He's been umping in the National League since 1976. That would be 40 years.
West has a couple of interesting sidelines. He's a recorded country singer, and has appeared as an opening act for Mickey Gillie and the late Merle Haggard. Below, the only video I could find of him. Don't quit your day job, Joe!
For the obvious reasons, he's known as Cowboy Joe.
West didn't get any love from the Cubs' hitters as they lost the second game of a double header to the San Diego Padres. Pretty wide strike zone, particularly on the inside corner for right handed hitters.
Cowboy Joe's other sideline is designing and selling umpiring protective gear. Looks like premium stuff. His stuff is endorsed by MLB and worn by 90% of MLB umps.
On his website, you'll find a couple of country CDs you can buy.
I got back up on the bicycle today and did 10 miles. Pretty easy ride. Coming back from illness is tricky for an old man. First thing to do is make sure you don't hurt yourself.
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