Ump Mike Muchlinski exits after foul ball hits mask
Home plate umpire Mike Muchlinski left Sunday’s game at Yankee Stadium between the Houston Astros and New York Yankees after taking a foul ball off his mask.
He was replaced behind the plate by crew chief Todd Tichenor, who was at second base, and the game continued with three officials.
Muchlinski, 45, was struck on the game’s second pitch when Houston designated hitter Michael Brantley fouled off a 91-mph fastball from left-hander Nestor Cortes.
Muchlinski initially stayed in the game after getting checked out by Yankees trainers. He was also looked at after the second inning before leaving the game after the top of the third inning.
The Astros held a 1-0 lead when Muchlinski exited as Jose Altuve homered on the first pitch of the game.
–Field Level Media