Scary moment in MLB: Umpire struck by 94 mph foul ball
The veteran official exited the Braves–Marlins matchup after taking a foul ball directly to the face while working behind the plate.
It was a tense moment in Major League Baseball after umpire Alfonso Márquez was forced to leave the game between the Atlanta Braves and Miami Marlins following a heavy blow to his mask during the matchup.
The incident occurred while Márquez was working behind the plate. A deflected ball shot back toward his face and struck his mask directly, causing the veteran umpire to show clear signs of discomfort before leaving the field accompanied by medical staff.
Footage of the moment highlighted the force of the impact. Márquez remained bent over for several moments, holding his jaw area before heading toward the clubhouse. According to various reports, the ball was traveling at close to 94 mph, increasing concern about his condition.
Umpire Alfonso Marquez was struck in the face by two foul tips in the same inning and forced to exit the game pic.twitter.com/pNVHxOxxoA
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) May 19, 2026
His exit prompted immediate reactions both on and off the field. Fellow umpires, players, and fans expressed concern for one of MLB’s most respected officials, who has built a long career.
Márquez is no ordinary name in Major League Baseball. Born in Zacatecas, he became the first Mexican umpire in MLB history and has put together a career spanning more than two decades. His career includes multiple World Series, All-Star Games, and postseason assignments, establishing him as a historic figure in Latin American umpiring.
The incident once again highlights the risks faced by home plate umpires. Despite modern protective gear, foul tips remain one of the most dangerous situations for those working just inches away from pitches that regularly exceed 90 miles per hour.
As of now, no definitive details have been released regarding the severity of the blow or how long he may be sidelined. However, the incident has raised alarms within MLB due to the violence of the impact and Márquez’s experience.
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