In a shocking turn of events during Saturday’s game, Los Angeles Angels outfielder Taylor Ward suffered facial fractures after being hit in the head by a pitch. The incident, which occurred in the fifth inning, left Ward with visible injuries and required immediate medical attention.
Implications and Injuries
Following the unfortunate incident, Ward was promptly placed on the 10-day injured list as the team assessed the severity of his injuries. The outfielder was taken to a Toronto hospital for comprehensive testing after being struck by a 91 mph pitch from Blue Jays right-hander Alek Manoah. The force of the impact was evident as Ward’s batting helmet was knocked off, resulting in blood running down his face.
While Ward was fortunate to be released from the hospital later that night, concerns regarding his overall well-being persisted. Angels manager Phil Nevin provided some respite by stating that Ward did not sustain any damage to his vision. However, the possibility of surgery remains on the table, with the final decision pending further evaluation. As of now, there is uncertainty surrounding the timeline for Ward’s return to California.
The incident involving Ward marked the second time Blue Jays pitcher Alek Manoah hit an Angels player during the game. Earlier in the first inning, Manoah struck Angels superstar Shohei Ohtani on the left foot. Reflecting on the situation, Manoah expressed deep remorse, referring to it as a “terrible moment.” He empathized with Ward, offering prayers for him and his family while expressing his hope for a positive recovery.
Taylor Ward, a seasoned six-year veteran with the Angels, had been enjoying a respectable season, boasting a batting average of .253 along with 14 home runs and 47 RBIs in 97 games. The unfortunate incident has now cast a shadow over his ongoing contribution to the team, raising concerns about the impact on his overall performance.
In light of Ward’s injury, the Angels made a corresponding move by selecting the contract of infielder Kevin Padlo. This decision was likely made to ensure backup and maintain the team’s offensive capabilities. However, Padlo’s limited performance this season, batting just .125 in three games, may leave fans questioning the overall strength and depth of the team’s lineup.
The incident involving Taylor Ward being hit by a pitch and subsequently suffering facial fractures is a distressing event that has raised concerns about player safety. While the circumstances surrounding the incident were unfortunate, it is crucial to prioritize Ward’s well-being and support his recovery. The Angels must find a way to overcome this setback and maintain their performance on the field as they continue their season.
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