Dexter Kelley, a proud HBCU alum from Savannah State College, made his Main League Baseball debut this spring, turning into a part of the umpiring crew for the 2025 season. Since his debut, Kelley has already known as eight MLB video games.
Kelley, 36, labored his first recreation at Truist Park in Atlanta throughout a Braves vs. Padres matchup, serving because the second base umpire. He later took assignments at first base and behind dwelling plate all through the sequence. His debut was much more particular along with his household—his spouse, son, mother and father, and shut pals—cheering from the stands.
Initially an outfielder at Savannah State, Kelley dreamed of enjoying professionally however moved on after not getting the contract he needed. That’s when his former faculty teammate, Joe McCrary, advised umpiring. Initially hesitant, Kelley was intrigued by the aspect cash: “$50 a recreation for 2 hours.”
The aspect hustle expands
What started as a aspect hustle quickly turned a profession. Kelley enrolled in a six-week umpire college and later attended the celebrated Harry Wendelstedt Umpire Faculty in Daytona Seashore, graduating on the high of his class. He shortly superior by means of the Gulf Coast League, New York-Penn League, Single-A Florida State League, Double-A Southern League, and Triple-A baseball.
This spring, Kelley was amongst 21 umpires chosen to work MLB spring coaching video games and was formally assigned a call-up quantity. When he lastly obtained “the decision,” it was the nice type. Kelley made his first main league name at second base on a dramatic play by Ronald Acuña Jr., a second he’ll always remember.
Kelley is aware of that is just the start. “It’s an incredible job, very arduous job and nothing is promised. You simply need to preserve working and hope the chips fall your manner.”
His journey is a testomony to the truth that HBCU athletes can nonetheless safe their livelihood in sports activities in additional than only one manner.
