Arizona Diamondbacks: Vindication for Madison Bumgarner

Madison Bumgarner had a day on Wednesday. Not only were the Arizona Diamondbacks playing a game at what would have been 10:40 AM their time, but Bumgarner was ejected after an inning of work. He was victimized by an ump show from first base umpire Dan Bellino, who appeared to go out of his way to antagonize the Diamondbacks pitcher before tossing him from the game.

Bumgarner was understandably heated after the exchange, needing to be restrained by several teammates and coaches from going after Bellino. There was no question that he was hoping for some sort of vindication when everything was said and done.

Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Madison Bumgarner gets vindication

That moment came on Friday. Bellino addressed his actions on Wednesday, saying that he takes full accountability for his actions while publically apologizing to Bumgarner. Although it is rare for umpires to issue public apologies such as this, he felt that the circumstances dictated such.

Bellino was also disciplined by the league. While those punishments are not made public, it is believed that he was fined as he was working Friday’s game between the Astros and Tigers. Bumgarner, meanwhile, was not punished for his outburst and ejection.

It certainly has to feel good for Bumgarner to have the league take his side. They could have just as easily issued a fine or suspension, especially given the viral nature of his reaction to the foreign substance check. However, in what is a bit of a surprise, logic prevailed.

After a mediocre start to his time with the Diamondbacks, Bumgarner is off to a strong start this season. He has posted a 1.50 ERA and a 1.125 WHiP in his 24 innings thus far, striking out 15 batters with 11 walks. If he is indeed in the midst of a career renaissance, that fire could be why.

Umpire Dan Bellino issued a public apology to Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Madison Bumgarner. He had to feel some vindication after Wednesday’s situation.