On May 28th, 2021, Major League Baseball (MLB) umpire John Tumpane was hospitalized after being struck in the head by a baseball during a game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Chicago Cubs. The incident occurred in the top of the fourth inning when a line drive off the bat of Pirates’ outfielder Bryan Reynolds hit Tumpane in the back of the head.
Tumpane immediately fell to the ground and was attended to by medical personnel. He was taken off the field on a stretcher and transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. Fortunately, Tumpane was released from the hospital later that evening with no serious injuries.
The incident highlights the dangers that umpires face on the field. Umpires are often in close proximity to the players and can be vulnerable to injury due to their lack of protective gear. While MLB has implemented several safety measures to protect umpires, such as requiring them to wear helmets and face shields, there is still a risk of injury.
The incident involving John Tumpane serves as a reminder of the importance of safety for umpires on the field. MLB should continue to take steps to ensure that umpires are protected from potential injuries. This includes providing additional protective gear, such as chest protectors and leg guards, as well as implementing additional rules and regulations to ensure that umpires are kept safe.
John Tumpane’s quick recovery is a testament to his resilience and strength. His courage and determination in the face of danger serve as an inspiration to all who work in the MLB. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back on the field soon.
