Mark Carlson

Mark Christopher Carlson (born July 11, 1969) is an American retired Major League Baseball umpire. He wore number 48 until the 2012 season, when his number changed to 6. He was promoted to crew chief for the 2021 season. Carlson's MLB career began in 1999, and he retired following the 2025 season.

Umpiring career Carlson began his career as a National League umpire in , and has worked in both Major Leagues since .

He was the second base umpire on September 28, 2012, when Homer Bailey of the Cincinnati Reds no-hit the Pittsburgh Pirates.

MLB selected Carlson to officiate the 2014 Opening Series from March 20–23, 2014 at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney, Australia.

Carlson served as the Rules Analyst for MLB on FOX for the 2025 World Series.

Personal life Carlson was involved in baseball throughout his childhood. Carlson attended Joliet West High School and Parkland College, where he played catcher. He also served in the United States Marine Corps and served as a board member for UMPS Care Charities before founding the Mark Carlson's Care children's charity. He resides in Illinois with his wife and two daughters.