The Official Scorer makes and announces all game decisions involving judgment calls based on Rule 9 of the Official Baseball Rules, clarifying scoring rules interpretation to club and media personnel when necessary.
Approves the official game report transmitted to MLB's Official Statistician (Elias Sports Bureau) post-game.
We encourage you to apply for your local team's opening, even if there is not an immediate need, as our staffing requirements may change throughout the year.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Arrive at the ballpark no later than 60 minutes prior to the scheduled start time
Collect rosters and other applicable information, test press box microphone and be set up before first pitch
Keep a detailed scorecard of the game, focusing on every pitch and play
Make announcements as expected of the Official Scorer (i.
e.
time of first pitch, fielding credits, winning and losing pitchers, etc.
)
Coordinate with the MLB Stringer, alerting them of all in-game judgment calls before announcing as well as coordinating approval of the official post-game report prior to its transmission to the Official MLB statistician
Communicate with MLB Official Scoring in-game support when necessary via Slack
Provide a post-game recap detailing Scoring decisions and other application of Rule 9 of the MLB rulebook
Participate with in-season training when necessary and reasonably required
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
Exceptional (and demonstrable) knowledge of the Official Baseball Rules, and especially Section 9 of OBR
Effectively utilize approved online tools designed to enhance performance and communication with essential game personnel
Ability to clearly communicate information via press box mic, and to effectively clarify Official Scoring Rules and scoring decisions, when necessary, to club officials and others
Demonstrate good judgment on applicable plays requiring decisions
Attention to detail in keeping a scorecard and tracking game totals for each player and team
Demeanor to accept constructive criticism and instruction, and patience to deal with critique of performance from various parties (i.
e.
clubs, players, media).
Collaborative spirit with colleagues at MLB, other Official Scorers, team officials and others
At many games, the Official Scorer may be the most visible representative of MLB and needs to conduct him or herself with appropriate dignity
Previous Official Scoring experience in professional or amateur baseball is strongly preferred but not required