I watched the game and although there are several reports that the ball struck the mask I honestly saw Kerwin turn his head as the ball was coming at him. A pitched ball that hits the mask typically will not deliver a knockout punch.

What kind of protection should umpires wear?

A typical umpire mask does not cover the neck and lower jaw when the head turns. Umpires are taught to never turn their head but it is a natural instinct.

Several MLB umpires have gone to the hockey style mask.

Should better protection be a rule or should we just wait until someone gets killed.

I feel all little league umpires should be required to wear hockey style masks when umpiring.

MLB should set the example and look after the men in blue.

With all the broken bats this year how long do you expect it will take until some ump gets a taste of what happened to Yeager.