Braves' Culberson carted off after taking pitch to face on bunt attempt
Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb 1 hr ago
Atlanta Braves infielder Charlie Culberson was carted off the field after Washington Nationals reliever Fernando Rodney hit him in the face with a pitch during a bunt attempt in the seventh inning of Saturday's game at Nationals Park.
© Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty
Culberson, 30, had just entered the game as a pinch-hitter for Mike Foltynewicz and squared to attempt a sacrifice bunt on the first pitch. He failed to avoid Rodney's 91-mph fastball, however, as it struck him square in the face.
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Training staff from both teams tended to Culberson during a long delay before he was helped to his feet. He gave a thumbs-up while being carted off as Braves trainer George Poulis held a towel to his nose.
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Home plate umpire Tim Timmons called the pitch a strike, ruling Culberson had gone around while trying to duck out of the way. The call infuriated Braves manager Brian Snitker, who was ejected for protesting.
Adam Duvall took over Culberson's at-bat with an 0-1 count, eventually striking out.
Poster Comment:
If Culberson was hit by a pitch he should have been given the base. Why no pinch runner?