Linus Baker, the Defense Logistics Agency Cybersecurity Director, has been selected as one of the eight umpires for the prestigious NCAA College World Series starting June 14 in Omaha, Nebraska. This marks a significant milestone in Baker’s two-decade-long umpiring career.
Linus Baker’s Journey to the College World Series
Linus Baker received the call he had been hoping for while umpiring at the Athletic Coast Conference men’s baseball tournament in Charlotte, North Carolina. After 20 years as a college baseball umpire, he was informed of his selection for the College World Series by the NCAA umpire coordinator.
- Umpiring Experience:
- Over 20 years in college baseball
- Seven years in the Athletic Coast Conference
- Umpired 14 regionals and five super regionals
The Competitive Landscape
The path to becoming a College World Series umpire is highly competitive, with over 3,000 umpires in Division I baseball vying for spots. Baker’s persistence and dedication have finally paid off.
- Selection Process:
- Only 96 umpires selected for NCAA post-season
- Three of the eight umpires for this year’s CWS are amateurs like Baker
Challenges and Dedication
The journey was not easy. Baker faced stiff competition, especially from ex-professional umpires with formal training. However, his passion and commitment to the sport kept him motivated.
“When you have a passion for something, you go above and beyond to be good at it,” said Baker, emphasizing the importance of staying fit both mentally and physically.
Balancing Dual Roles
Baker’s professional life as the Cybersecurity Director at the Defense Logistics Agency parallels his umpiring career. Both roles require managing people, staying composed under pressure, and earning trust.
- Professional Parallels:
- Overseeing a team of 300 at DLA
- Mastering baseball rules and managing on-field dynamics
- Earning trust in both fields
Attribute |
Cybersecurity Director |
Baseball Umpire |
|---|---|---|
| Managing people | Team of 300 | Teams, coaches, and game situations |
| Staying composed | Cybersecurity threats | On-field pressure |
| Earning trust | Leadership and expertise | Poise and decision-making |
The Selection Process
The Division I baseball committee selects College World Series umpires based on evaluations and a formal nomination process. Baker’s dedication and performance over the years have finally been recognized.
- Selection Criteria:
- Evaluations from previous games
- Formal nominations
Baker’s Love for Baseball
Baker’s love for baseball began at the age of five and continued through high school and college. He played throughout high school and during his years at Brewton-Parker College in Mount Vernon, Georgia.
- Early Baseball Experience:
- Started playing at age 5
- Played throughout high school
- Played during college
Military Service and Umpiring Beginnings
After college, Baker served four years in the Army as an intelligence analyst. His umpiring journey began in Virginia, where he responded to a local newspaper ad looking for umpires for youth baseball programs.
- Military and Umpiring Start:
- Served as an intelligence analyst at Fort Knox
- Assistant baseball coach at Fort Knox Middle High School
- Began umpiring in Virginia
In Conclusion
Linus Baker’s selection as a College World Series umpire is a testament to his dedication, passion, and hard work. Balancing his role as the Cybersecurity Director at the Defense Logistics Agency with his love for baseball, Baker exemplifies commitment and excellence in both fields.
Sources: THX News, U.S. Defense Logistics Agency, NCAA.
