MLB Umpire Hunter Wendelstedt Hospitalized After Head Injury

Veteran MLB umpire Hunter Wendelstedt was hospitalized after being struck in the head by a 90mph line-drive foul ball during the Minnesota Twins' game against the New York Mets. The incident occurred in the seventh inning when a ball hit by Mets center fielder Tyrone Taylor struck Wendelstedt at first base, causing him to immediately fall to the ground. Medical staff tended to him before he was able to walk off the field on his own, pressing a towel to his head, and he is undergoing concussion protocol and further tests. The event visibly shook both teams, with players and managers expressing concern and well wishes for Wendelstedt's recovery. Following the incident, second base umpire Adam Hamari filled in at first, and the game continued, ultimately resulting in a 4-3 victory for the Twins in extra innings. The incident has reignited discussions about additional protective gear for umpires, though crew chief Todd Tichenor expressed skepticism about the need for helmets.