Embattled MLB umpire CB Bucknor leaves game after taking foul ball to mask day after controversial call

Bucknor exits Brewers-Rays game after foul tip to mask

Milwaukee Brewers home plate umpire C.B. Bucknor left the game against the Tampa Bay Rays early on April 1, 2026, after a foul-tipped pitch struck his facemask. The incident occurred in the second inning when Rays batter Nick Fortes fouled off a 100.2 mph fastball from Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski. Medical staff assisted the 63-year-old Bucknor, who walked off the field, forcing a delay while the crew adjusted to three umpires for the remainder.

The exit came one day after Bucknor drew widespread criticism for calling Cleveland Guardians first baseman Jake Bauers out at first base despite replay evidence showing his cleat touch the bag squarely. Bucknor worked behind the plate amid increased scrutiny on umpires in the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge era. Both Fortes and Brewers catcher William Contreras reacted immediately to the hit at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Bucknor, a major league umpire since 1996, ranks among the two longest-tenured active officials. He has worked the 2005 and 2021 All-Star Games, five American League Division Series and two no-hitters. He has exited at least two prior games due to foul tips, including one in 2013.

The Brewers rallied for six runs in the eighth inning to secure an 8-2 victory, their fifth win in six games this season.