Los Angeles Angels outfielder Taylor Ward has been placed on the 10-day injured list after suffering facial fractures. Ward’s injuries occurred after being struck by a 91 mph pitch from Blue Jays right-hander Alek Manoah during a game in Toronto.
Following the incident, which occurred in the fifth inning of Saturday’s game, Ward was taken to a local hospital. He was discharged later that evening. The Angels have since selected infielder Kevin Padlo from Triple-A Salt Lake to replace Ward.
The pitch hit Ward near his left eye while he was batting with the bases loaded, causing his helmet to fly off and leaving him bloodied. Medical staff rushed out to attend him, and he was eventually able to walk off the field with assistance.
In his six-year career with the Angels, Taylor Ward has a batting average of .253 with 14 home runs and 47 RBI in 97 games.
Earlier this season, Colorado Rockies pitcher Ryan Feltner also suffered a serious head injury after being hit by a line drive. These incidents highlight the inherent risks in the sport of baseball and underscore the importance of safety precautions and responsive medical attention.