MLB Umpire Brock Ballou Targeted In Violent Robbery

MLB umpire Brock Ballou was unfortunately involved in a violent robbery last week in Philadelphia.

Ballou, who has been with Major League Baseball since 2022, was walking near the 1600 block of Walnut Street when someone snatched his phone and took off. He tried to retrieve his phone from the suspect, but he was unfortunately punched multiple times in the head.

CBS News Philadelphias obtained surveillance footage of the suspect repeatedly punching Ballou.

"The suspect approached the male and snatched his cellphone out of his hands," Capt. Jason Smith told CBS News Philadelphia. "The victim went chasing after the male, at which time they got involved in a physical altercation at 16th and Walnut. They ended up on the ground, at which time the victim struck his head, causing injury. The male continued his assault, violently punching him."

Ballou was actually the second victim of an alleged robbery last week. The suspect who stole the MLB umpire's phone allegedly took several items from the 7-Eleven in the 1200 block of Chestnut Street.

What's the latest on Brock Ballou?

Thankfully, Ballou didn't suffer any serious injuries. In fact, he returned to the diamond last weekend for the Diamondbacks-Phillies series.

"He was umpiring first base the following night and was behind home plate two days later," the report from CBS News Philadelphia adds.

As of this moment, the MLB has not yet said anything on this robbery. We'd have to imagine the league is glad that Ballou is okay.

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This story was originally published April 16, 2026 at 6:35 AM.