Cardinals Manager Oliver Marmol Slams Umpire Bucknor Over Strike Call

Last August, Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol had an uneasy encounter with home plate umpire C.B. Bucknor over a strike call.

Marmol and Bojang had an altercation which ultimately culminated in Marmol being ejected from the game. For Marmol, it was a memorable moment and he promised never to let it happen again.

Bucknor declined to shake Marmol’s hand

On Saturday morning during a spring training game between the St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals, umpire C.B. Bucknor refused to shake the hand of manager Oliver Marmol when it was time for lineup cards exchange before the game. As a result, Marmol chastised Bucknor for his actions, and Major League Baseball is now investigating the incident.

Umpires often get criticized for their decisions, but it is never appropriate to get into an argument. The best umpires make decisions with a positive mental attitude and use their gut instinct when making calls; that is, they don't appear arrogant or self-serving and respect all parties involved in baseball's game.

The top umpires possess excellent communication skills with players and coaches. This requires having a positive attitude toward training and being teachable; both of which help them maintain their credibility on the field.

That is why it's essential to make sure you are suitable for the umpiring job. Taking some time out of your day to consider your style and how it fits into the game of baseball can help make you a better umpire.

Additionally, you should hone and perfect your communication skills so you can handle criticism from teammates and coaches effectively. This includes communicating when uncertain about a call or when something feels off, as well as remaining composed under pressure.

When under duress, it can be easy to lose your cool and start fighting with players or coaches. But if you have mental toughness, you will have a greater chance of making an informed decision in such situations.

In the best-of-seven World Series, the umpiring crew's chemistry is paramount for making accurate calls. Therefore, MLB strives to ensure its umpires are at their peak performance level. To do this, they often employ tools which grade their calls and assess consistency.

One of the best ways to measure umpire accuracy is through Statcast, a search engine that tracks balls and strikes called throughout a game. It allows users to quickly and easily search for every pitch called a strike or taken after a game ends, providing valuable data when it comes to measuring an umpire's precision.

It is no shock that Bucknor and Marmol have a difficult relationship, as they've both had past disagreements. Last August, Marmol was ejected from an NL Central game between the Cardinals and Diamondbacks after engaging in verbal combat with Bucknor over a strike call to third baseman Nolan Arenado.

Marmol says Bucknor has ‘zero class’

Marmol was not amused that Bucknor refused to shake his hand during the traditional lineup card exchange before Saturday's 3-2 spring training loss to the Washington Nationals. However, he had plenty of company in Ron Kulpa and Angel Hernandez who did so; along with Cards pitchmen Ryan Sweeney and Alexi Ramirez. A spokesman for the Cardinals stated they could not conduct a more thorough investigation into what transpired due to legal reasons.

Given the team's four game series against the reigning National League pennant winners, we expected some post-game mingling. But what we weren't expecting was an epic showdown between these two bulldogs!

Marmol says Bucknor declined to shake his hand

Marmol and Bucknor have a history of getting into heated exchanges in the dugout, beginning with an exchange during an August game against Arizona Diamondbacks last year. After being ejected from that contest, Marmol became furious and stormed out to home plate, disputing balls and strikes before being physically restrained by another umpire.

After the game, Bucknor refused to shake Marmol's hand during lineup card exchange at home plate, prompting Marmol to accuse him of having 'zero class' according to The Athletic's Katie Woo. All three other umpires in the game -- Angel Hernandez, Ron Kulpa and Carlos Torres -- shook Marmol's hand in apology for their colleague's actions, Marmol told reporters.

On Saturday afternoon during the Cardinals' spring training opener against the Washington Nationals, tensions at home plate caused a delay to a traditional photo opportunity between umpires. Just as Marmol and Bucknor were about to leave when a photographer rushed after them for a picture, Marmol said that he tried to shake Bucknor's hand before departing.

Bucknor ultimately refused to shake Marmol's hands and did not return a phone call from a reporter. MLB is reviewing the incident, with ESPN's Jeff Nelson tweeting that no decision has yet been made on the matter.

It has been a tumultuous relationship between the two since last summer, and it appears there will be no resolution anytime soon. The umpire has been one of the most maligned figures in sports, and both parties have engaged in some heated exchanges over the years.

On one of many scuffles during the game, Marmol argued that Bucknor should not have called a pitch off the inside edge of the plate as a strike against Nolan Arenado, leading to an intense exchange between them. Eventually, Bucknor ejected Marmol with a theatrical point and Marmol has never forgotten it since.

Since then, the umpire's decisions have continued to irk Marmol, leading to an exchange during last August's home opener against the Diamondbacks. After an incorrect call on an inside edge pitch caused an emotional exchange between the dugouts, Marmol was eventually ejected from the game.

After the altercation, Marmol took to social media to attack Bucknor, calling him a turd and saying that he has "zero class as a man." Other umpires in the game shook his hand and apologized to him; MLB is now investigating what transpired.

Even if it doesn't cost Bucknor his job, the incident serves as a reminder of what umpires must endure during every game in the majors. That is why it is so essential to treat umpires with respect.

As Spring Training gets underway, all 30 Major League Baseball teams have plenty to look forward to. New rules have been instituted and the first Spring Training game of 2023 gives fans a chance to preview potential roster members next year. Furthermore, there may be an opportunity for rivalry to resurface as the season progresses.

FSU Rallys From 25 Down to Stun No. 13 Miami 85-84

FSU has a unique tradition: Osceola, the Seminole chief, rides onto the field on horse Renegade to kick off every home game. A flaming spear is then planted in the center of the field as an honor guard.

Florida State is an increasingly attractive option for students due to its comprehensive range of academic majors and degrees at competitive prices. Plus, its large student body boasts diverse ethnic backgrounds, political affiliations and socioeconomic statuses.

Corey Clement

On Saturday night, Florida State came from 25 down to defeat No. 13 Miami 85-84, and running back Corey Clement was an integral part of their triumph.

In Sunday's win against Philadelphia, former Eagle and New Jersey native Justin Franklin ran for 23 yards on eight touches while scoring one of two targets with a two-yard touchdown. Though he hadn't had many chances to shine this year, his efforts against the Eagles will be remembered as an important contribution for their team.

Impact Clement will likely get more opportunities in Week 18 with Tony Pollard (foot) out of the lineup. With fellow running backs James Conner (ribs) and Darrel Williams (knee) expected to miss their usual workload, Clement could get some work alongside Ezekiel Elliott during their upcoming matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Clement will provide a change-of-pace option behind Conner. With rookie sixth-round pick Keaontay Ingram also in the mix, Clement should have more chances to earn snaps than what he saw last weekend against Washington.

His Week 14 performance against Washington was impressive for a backup, as he led the Cowboys with 11 touches and ran for 80 yards in their win. He'll likely get another chance to show his mettle during their final regular-season game against the Giants on November 28.

Clement has won one Super Bowl as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles and was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2017. Born in Glassboro, NJ and raised as an avid Cowboys fan, he began his NFL career playing tight end for Dallas Cowboys.

He rushed for 2,335 yards and 22 touchdowns in his first two seasons with the Eagles before missing all of his third campaign due to injury. Additionally, he set career highs in catches, receptions and receiving yards. An integral part of Philly Special history, he made his Super Bowl debut with them in 2017! Register for 4 tickets to Philadelphia Sportscard & Memorabilia Show on March 11 and we'll give you a unique meet-and-greet photo op with him!

Dwayne Haskins

Dwayne Haskins has been one of the most remarkable players in college football during his sophomore season. He has been a major force for both Ohio State and the Big Ten Conference, throwing for more than 5,000 yards and scoring 35 touchdowns in 22 games.

Haskins is a unanimous 4-star prospect and widely considered to be the best pro-style quarterback in his class by ESPN, Rivals, 247Sports and Scout. As a senior at Bullis High School, Haskins led his team to back-to-back Interstate Athletic Conference titles while setting numerous school records along the way.

He was named Washington Post's player of the year and earned All-American accolades by Prepstar. Additionally, he was part of Maryland's Gatorade All-American team.

Haskins had an uneventful start to his career, but he made significant strides in his second game - a 45-38 triumph over No. 13 Miami that required overtime to decide the outcome. He finished 28-of-38 for 405 yards and three touchdowns, including two third-down conversions during extra time for the winning score.

Haskins' performance at Ohio State was an incredible milestone in his career, particularly as it marked his first time playing for the Buckeyes. If he hopes to become the next Heisman Trophy winner, there is much work left for him to accomplish.

Haskins, a Maryland native and football enthusiast, developed an affinity for his alma mater. Initially committed to play for them, Haskins ultimately decided that Ohio State was better suited for him in terms of both academics and athletics.

He possesses the potential to be an outstanding quarterback, and that ability was on display during his performance against Miami. He was responsible for several key plays such as a botched snap that turned into a touchdown scamper and an exquisite back-shoulder fade to Binjimen Victor in overtime.

Marquise Goodwin

Marquise Goodwin is an athletic receiver with great speed and the ability to make plays on the ball. He's an adept route runner with strong hands that can help him in the open field. With a history of making plays in the red zone, Goodwin poses as a dangerous possession threat.

He's a highly versatile player, capable of playing both the slot and outside positions depending on the situation. Additionally, he is known to be an impressive pass catcher out of the backfield.

In addition to his wide receiver role, he is an invaluable asset on special teams. Last season he blocked four punts and has blocked three kickoffs this year so far.

Goodwin has only been part of the Seahawks offense for two years, yet he already has made an impact. This season he has played 14 games and recorded 28 receptions for 380 yards, solidifying himself as one of their top wideout options by catching passes from quarterbacks and filling in for Tyler Lockett (finger).

Goodwin is coming off a highly productive performance in Sunday's loss to Carolina, when he set season highs in both receptions and receiving yards. On five of his six targets for 95 yards and one touchdown on Sunday, in addition to running for another two yards.

He was an integral part of the Seahawks' offense, particularly on third down, and played a significant role in their comeback from 25 points down against Miami on Saturday. Although they had struggled mightily in their last five games against Miami, the Seahawks managed to come from 25 points down late in that contest to earn a victory.

The former Texas Longhorn is averaging an incredible 12.5 yards per reception this season, and his speed makes him a major asset to Seattle. He's an exceptional athlete who can run the 40-yard dash in 4.33 seconds and his ability to catch the football while moving makes him an invaluable asset in their offense.

Xavier Johnson

On Saturday night, the Hurricanes came into North Carolina State with a two-game losing streak. In both contests, North Carolina State raced out to an early lead and never let up, ultimately leading to defeat for UM.

On Saturday, Miami found a way to hold off the Wolfpack and score nine points for an impressive win. Freshman closer Carson Palmquist even managed 1.1 scoreless innings of relief in relief to complete the comeback victory.

Palmquist not only made an impressive reliever, but he was also a strong hitter as well. On the day, he had two hits including an in-and-out double to right center that put him on base - becoming the only batter to reach base against Wolfpack starters Jordan Lala and Anthony Vilar.

Johnson played an integral role in Florida State's victory, scoring 23 points on 7-for-10 shooting from the field. His game-saving basket in the third quarter helped transform an eight-point deficit into a six-point advantage.

Xavier's defense was an integral factor in their victory, holding DePaul to only 0.91 points per possession - a season best for their defense.

This was a marked improvement over their two previous road victories, which were separated by just three points. Furthermore, this victory propelled the Musketeers into the top spot in the Big East Conference standings.

Indiana's loss was particularly frustrating as they were playing without second-leading scorer Xavier Johnson, who was arrested on reckless driving charges early Sunday morning.

Johnson's arrest was a setback for Indiana, but it only proved to be temporary. He still managed to put up 22 points on 9-of-18 shooting from the floor and 4-for-5 from 3-point range in their win against the Hoosiers.

After some difficult minutes, the Hoosiers began to play better and got a timely steal on Xavier's first possession of the second half. Jackson-Davis hit a 3-pointer for a late tie at 55-55, but it proved too little too late.

Xavier built an early 14-point lead before Indiana made a late comeback to close the gap to six with just under seven minutes remaining. Unfortunately, Adam Kunkel missed a critical layup with two seconds left, so Xavier had no choice but to secure their victory with 81-79 score.