Embattled MLB umpire CB Bucknor leaves game after taking foul ball to mask day after controversial call

Umpire Bucknor Exits Brewers-Rays Game After Foul Tip

Major League Baseball umpire C.B. Bucknor left the Milwaukee Brewers-Tampa Bay Rays game in the second inning Wednesday after a foul-tipped pitch struck his facemask. The 100.2 mph fastball from Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski clipped Bucknor directly in the mask as Rays catcher Nick Fortes fouled it off at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Medical staff assisted Bucknor, who departed shortly after, forcing a delay while the crew adjusted to three umpires.

The injury came a day after Bucknor drew widespread criticism for calling Cleveland Guardians first baseman Jake Bauers out at first base despite video showing his cleat touch the bag squarely. Bucknor ruled the runner missed the base without looking at the play during Tuesday's game. Social media amplified the dispute amid heightened scrutiny on umpires in baseball's automated ball-strike review era.

Bucknor, 63, has officiated since 1996 and ranks among MLB's two longest-tenured umpires. His resume includes the 2005 and 2021 All-Star Games, five American League Division Series and two no-hitters. He has exited at least two prior games after foul tips to the mask, including one in 2013.

The Brewers rallied for six runs in the eighth inning to secure an 8-2 victory, marking their fifth win in six games this season.