A New Set of Umpires to Debut in the 2024 League Championship Series

Introduction of New Umpires

In an exciting announcement for the Major League Baseball (MLB) 2024 season, six umpires are set to make their first appearance in the League Championship Series (LCS). Taking on the prestigious role of crew chiefs, Dan Iassogna and Bill Miller are set to steer the teams through the crucial games. Mike Estabrook, Nic Lentz, Gabe Morales, Jeremie Rehak, Chris Segal, and Jansen Visconti will also be stepping onto the field for the first time in the LCS.

MLB’s Announcement

The news was confirmed by MLB on a recent Saturday, stirring anticipation for the games ahead. Iassogna is set to return as an LCS crew chief for the second consecutive year, overseeing the American League (AL) showdown between the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Guardians. Meanwhile, Miller will preside over the National League (NL) face-off between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets.

Umpire Assignments

Each series will benefit from the expertise of a seven-man crew, with one umpire taking a breather each game. For the AL series, which kicks off on Monday, Estabrook will be behind the plate, with Iassogna at first, Segal at second, Alan Porter at third, Visconti in left, Vic Carapazza in right, and Morales as the reserve umpire. The batting order for the umpires in Game 2 will be led by Morales, followed by Iassogna, Segal, Porter, Visconti, and Carapazza for Game 7.

Meanwhile, the NL series is set to commence on Sunday, with Rehak behind the plate, Marvin Hudson at first, Lentz at second, Miller at third, David Rackley in left, Jordan Baker in right, and Mike Muchlinski as the reserve umpire. The umpiring order for Game 2 will be led by Muchlinski, followed by Hudson, Lentz, Miller, Rackley, and Baker.

Experienced Crew Chiefs

In Game 2, when Iassogna steps in as the reserve umpire, Porter will take over as the AL crew chief. Similarly, when Miller becomes the reserve in Game 4, Hudson will lead the NL crew. This is not the first time for Miller and Iassogna; Miller will be working his ninth LCS, and Iassogna his eighth. Hudson, Muchlinski, and Porter are preparing for their fourth LCS, while Baker and Carapazza are gearing up for their third, and Rackley his second.

Replay Umpires at MLB’s Office in New York

Ensuring accuracy and fairness in these high-stakes games, Scott Barry, Alfonso Márquez, and Ben May will assume the critical roles of replay umpires at the MLB’s office in New York. Their experience and expertise will be vital in ensuring every call made during the games is correct and justifiable.