The three-batter minimum rule was controversial when it was first instituted before the 2020 season. It wasn't until Wednesday night that we saw its most dangerous consequences play out in St. Louis.
The Cardinals called on lefthander Genesis Cabrera to face Bryce Harper, who was leading off the sixth inning for the Phillies in a 3–3 game. Cabrera unleashed his first pitch, a 96.9 mph sinker, and drilled Harper square in the face, sending the superstar to the ground, cutting his nose and ending his night. Harper stood up on his own and walked directly to the clubhouse.