Umpiring career

Carlson began his career as a National League umpire in 1999, and has worked in both Major Leagues since 2000. Carlson had previously worked in the Pioneer, Midwest, Florida State, Southern, International, and Arizona Fall leagues before reaching the MLB. Carlson has umpired the Division Series (2005, 2007, 2011, 2012, 2015), League Championship Series (2013, 2014) and World Series (2015).

Notable games

Carlson was the left field umpire in the 2003 All-Star Game.

He was the home plate umpire for the May 2, 2012 no-hitter thrown by Los Angeles Angels pitcher Jered Weaver.

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 Syndey, Australia.

Personal

Carlson was involved in baseball throughout his childhood. He has one brother, Michael, who died in 2004. 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.

[ Source: Wikipedia ]