Joe West bloodied after getting clipped by Bo Bichette backswing (Video)
By Scott Rogust
Home plate umpire Joe West became the unintentional victim of Bo Bichette’s swing
This week hasn’t been too kind to MLB. The Miami Marlins had a COVID-19 outbreak in their clubhouse, which saw 17 players and two coaches test positive for the virus. The Philadelphia Phillies, whom hosted the Marlins this past Sunday after said viral spread, saw one coach and staff member test positive for the coronavirus. Add the Joe Kelly-Houston Astros drama, and you get a busy commissioner in Rob Manfred. Things couldn’t possibly get any worse, right?
Unfortunately, that answer was a clear yes. During a Thursday matinee game between the Toronto Blue Jays and Washington Nationals, home plate umpire Joe West ended up with a bloody face after getting hit by Bo Bichette’s backswing.
West departs for medical attention
An additional camera angle shows that the Blue Jays shortstop lost control of his bat during the swing, causing it to boomerang into West’s left ear. West would exit the game shortly after to receive medical attention, forcing the game to resume with just three umpires.
MLB’s pool of umpires in 2020 is shallow due to the coronavirus pandemic. Even though many opted against participating due to the serious implications of the virus. However, West made some absurd claims that he doesn’t believe over 150,000 Americans didn’t tragically die from COVID-19. After West’s comments went public, the MLB Umpires Association distanced themselves from him.
It’s unknown how serious West’s injury is, but we’ll continue to keep you updated once we receive official word later tonight or on Friday.