Seiya Suzuki Called Out on Third-Strike Pitch-Clock Violation After Foul Ball to Groin

Chicago Cubs centerfielder Seiya Suzuki was controversially called out on a third-strike pitch-clock violation during Monday's game against the Kansas City Royals. The incident occurred after Suzuki fouled off a 3-1 slider, which struck him in the groin, leading him to take a moment to walk off the discomfort. Despite returning to the batter's box in a reasonable time, home plate umpire Clint Vondrak enforced the violation, ending the inning. Cubs manager Craig Counsell protested the call, arguing for common sense, as MLB rules permit umpires to grant extra time in special circumstances like this.