True it is merit. Each group of Umpires has a Crew Chief that makes assignments for the games during the pool play. The Crew Chiefs are selected based on their experience and times at the park. The Crew chiefs then watch them as they work, they will work games together. They then fill our a report, as well as someone watches the crew chiefs. You will always get the best the park has during the Championship. I have done it and also done the Semi's. It is a blast.