New YA Sports Novella "The Ump" Explores the Surprising Power of Authority and Self-Discovery

PHILADELPHIA, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Get ready for a humorous and surprisingly insightful journey into the world of high school softball, where a quiet family lawyer discovers the unexpected power of an umpire's uniform. Values of America Publishing is excited to announce the release of "The Ump," a Young Adult Sports Novella by Bob Merz.

"The Ump" introduces readers to James N. Grossman, a man whose life is a picture of suburban calm. As a soft-spoken family lawyer, James navigates his days mediating disputes with thoughtful patience. His evenings are a tranquil blend of quiet dinners with his wife, and solving crossword puzzles. He's the epitome of gentle composure – that is, until he reluctantly agrees to volunteer as an umpire for the local high school girls' softball league, at the request of his teenage daughter.

The moment James dons the deep blue umpire uniform, complete with chest protector, shin guards and face mask, a remarkable metamorphosis occurs. Gone is the mild-mannered James; in his place emerges "The Ump," a comically authoritarian figure who applies the rulebook with unwavering, laser-guided precision. Strikes are called with surgical accuracy, coaches are ejected for the slightest infractions, and every obscure bylaw of high school softball is enforced without compromise. The girls, accustomed to relaxed officiating, are bewildered, while opposing teams and parents are left utterly stupefied by his uncompromising calls.

Off the field, James is baffled by "The Ump's" behavior, yet feels powerless to control the transformation. The hilarious chaos escalates when his wife and college-age kids secretly attend one of his games, leading to a shocking confrontation and James's frantic attempts to reconcile his split personality.

"The Ump" promises a delightful blend of humor, self-discovery, and poignant insights into the world of youth sports. Readers will cheer, cringe, and ultimately connect with James as he navigates the hilarious on-field confrontations and unexpected revelations that come with stepping into a role of power.

Bob Merz is the principal of Values of America Publishing. He is a native Philadelphian with an appreciation for American history. He is a sports enthusiast having penned books on Philly sports heroes, including the Hall of Fame racehorse, Smarty Jones, and the Phillies World Series Champion slugger, Ryan Howard.

"The Ump" is available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle eBook.

Media Contact:
Bob Merz
267-992-1757
[email protected]

SOURCE Values of America Publishing