Although he never played college football, the 220-pound Umont was a tackle with
the NFL's New York Giants from 1943 to 1945. He ejected Baltimore's Earl Weaver before
a 1969 game for smoking in the dugout. The next day, Weaver came out carrying his
lineup card with a white cylinder dangling from
his lips. As he handed the card to
Umont, Earl casually ate the candy cigarette. Late in his career, Umont had the courage
to wear glasses on the field even though it made him a target for bench jockeys.
(RTM)
FROM THE BASEBALL CHRONOLOGY
»April 24, 1956:
AL umpire Frank Umont is the first to wear glasses
in a regular season game, between Detroit and Kansas
City. The former NFL tackle (New York Giants) still
presents an intimidating appearance to most players
and fans.
»July 17, 1959: In a dispute with the umpires, Cleveland manager Joe Gordon is ejected. Cleveland OF Minnie Minoso refuses to stand in the batter's box until the argument is over. Umpire Frank Umont calls him out on strikes. The enraged Minoso charges Umont and gets the thumb also. The Indians win 8–7 to stay on the heels of Chicago.
»August 1, 1972:
Trailing by several runs in a game threatened by rain, Billy Martin has his Detroit Tigers employ stalling tactics while the opposing Milwaukee Brewers try to speed the game up. The game lasts six innings, with Del Crandall's Brewers winning 6–0. Umpire Frank Umont recommends a fine of $1,000 for both managers.