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MLB Umpire Hunter Wendelstedt Undergoes Hospital Tests After Being Struck by Foul Ball
MINNEAPOLIS – Major League Baseball umpire Hunter Wendelstedt is in stable condition and underwent further medical evaluations at a local hospital on Wednesday, according to an MLB spokesperson. This occurred after Wendelstedt sustained an injury when he was hit in the head by a sharp foul ball during a game.
Umpire Hit by Taylor Foul Ball
Wendelstedt, positioned at first base, was injured in the sixth inning when a foul ball off the bat of Tyrone Taylor struck him on the side of the head.
“It seemed to unfold in slow motion,” Taylor commented following the Mets’ 4-3 defeat to the Twins at Target Field. “It was a frightening moment.”
Wendelstedt’s Condition and Game Continuation
Crew chief Todd Tichenor reported that Wendelstedt was conscious and communicative immediately following the incident.
The game was completed with a reduced crew of three umpires.
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Taylor Expresses Concern
Taylor reflected that the event brought back memories of a previous incident where a line drive he hit entered the stands and resulted in fan injuries.
“I feel a sense of responsibility for what happened,” Taylor admitted.
Jeff McNeil Rehab Assignment Shifts to Center Field
Jeff McNeil’s injury rehabilitation is progressing, with his next step involving a position change.
The New York Mets second baseman, recovering from an oblique strain, is slated to play center field on Thursday for Low-A St. Lucie, announced manager Carlos Mendoza.
McNeil’s Center Field Experience and Mets’ Needs
McNeil has minimal experience in center field at the major league level, with three appearances, including two starts in 2023.
The Mets currently have an opening in center field as Jose Siri is sidelined with a fractured left tibia. Siri is anticipated to be placed on the injured list on Thursday.
Mendoza on McNeil’s Versatility
“This is not unfamiliar territory for [McNeil], as he has played there previously,” Mendoza explained. “We want to leverage this minor league opportunity to increase his versatility, and he is agreeable to it.”
Mendoza mentioned that the team already has Taylor and Luisangel Acuña as options for center field but aims to enhance McNeil’s positional flexibility for the team.
McNeil’s Rehab Progression and Weather Contingency
McNeil’s rehab assignment could potentially advance to Triple-A Syracuse later this weekend, however, Mendoza indicated that weather conditions will be a deciding factor.
McNeil suffered the oblique strain early in spring training and has been undergoing rehabilitation since that time.
Francisco Alvarez Returns to Game Action Following Hand Injury Scare
Francisco Alvarez was scheduled to resume game action with Double-A Binghamton, just a day after being hit by a pitch on his left hand. He exited the previous game as a precaution after catching the subsequent inning.
Alvarez is currently in the process of rehabbing from surgery on the same hand.
Alvarez’s Condition Update
“It was a bit alarming when he left the game, but he is doing well,” Mendoza reassured.