In a recent, jarring incident during a Twins-Mets game, umpire Hunter Wendelstedt was hospitalized yesterday after being hit in the face by a foul ball. The veteran, who is in his 28th major league season, was working at first base when he took a line drive foul off the bat of Twins outfielder Tyrone Taylor. The ball struck Wendelstedt squarely, leaving him down for a few minutes before he was able to walk off the field with assistance, pressing a towel to the left side of his head, as CBS News New York reported.
Following the incident, crew chief Todd Tichenor provided some optimistic insight, although the seriousness of Wendelstedt's injury was immediately clear. In a statement obtained by The Daily News, Tichenor said, "Hopefully it’s just some stitches is what I’m thinking." He described the hit as solid and that it spooked everyone on the field. Wendelstedt underwent additional tests and a concussion protocol, with Major League Baseball announcing he was in good spirits subsequently.
The accident raised questions about the safety of umpires, who currently do not wear helmets on the bases. This is unlike base coaches, who have been required to don protective headgear since 2008, in response to the tragic incident where Mike Coolbaugh was killed by a line drive. Despite the incident with Wendelstedt, Tichenor mentioned after the game that he didn't believe umpires needed to start wearing helmets, as ascribed by CBS News New York. "This one was just 100 mph off the bat. We're taught to go opposite the ball. He just went into the ball. It happens. We all do it," Tichenor said, describing the unfortunate misstep that led to the accident.
Twins first baseman Ty France was praying for a speedy recovery for Wendelstedt, emphasizing that seeing such an event unfold is something you never want to witness, according to details shared by CBS News New York. Twins manager Rocco Baldelli also expressed his apprehensions, telling NY Daily News, "I would like to wish him the best and say we’re all thinking about him,” and noting his relief at seeing Wendelstedt walk off the field.
