"Controversial Plastic Knob on Bat Sparks Home Run Heroics in Reds Game"
Cincinnati Reds' rookie Elly De La Cruz faced controversy during a game when umpires questioned the legality of a small white plastic knob on the bottom of his bat. After reviewing the issue with the league office, De La Cruz was allowed to put the knob back on his bat for his second at-bat in the third inning. He went on to hit a home run, helping the Reds secure a 9-2 victory over the Washington Nationals. The knob, which is an empty plastic cover, is something De La Cruz used in spring training and finds more comfortable. The Cleveland Guardians will face the Reds, including De La Cruz, in August.