Umpire Ron Kulpa has been diagnosed with a concussion and will be sidelined for at least one week after being struck in the mask by a foul ball during Saturday’s game between the Miami Marlins and New York Yankees.
Incident Details
The injury occurred in the fourth inning when Kulpa was hit in the mask by a foul ball from Paul Blackburn to Jakob Marsee. Kulpa initially remained in the game, speaking briefly with catcher Austin Wells before continuing his duties.
Marsee singled shortly after, and Agustín Ramírez scored on a throwing error by left fielder Cody Bellinger, giving the Marlins a 4-0 lead.
However, after Otto Lopez stepped up to bat, Kulpa stepped away from the plate and motioned to the Yankees’ dugout. He was checked by two athletic trainers and ultimately exited the game under his own power.
Umpire Replacement
Scott Barry, who was previously umpiring at first base, moved behind the plate to replace Kulpa. After an 11-minute delay, Barry resumed calling balls and strikes. Derek Thomas joined the umpiring crew for Sunday’s series finale as Kulpa’s replacement.
Kulpa’s Career and Recovery
Kulpa, 57, made his Major League Baseball debut on July 23, 1998, and joined the MLB umpire staff in 1999. He has officiated in several high-profile games, including the World Series in 2011 and 2021.
Following his concussion diagnosis, Kulpa will undergo follow-up exams and care under concussion protocols, with an expected recovery time of at least a week.
