BREAKING: Cleveland Guardians’ designated hitter David Fry was urgently carted off the field in the sixth inning on August 15, 2023, after being struck in the face by a blistering 99 mph pitch. This alarming incident occurred during a game against the Detroit Tigers as Fry attempted to bunt against pitcher Tarik Skubal.
Witnesses report that the fastball hit Fry in the nose and mouth area, deflecting off his bat. As Fry collapsed in the batter’s box, grabbing his face, a visibly shaken Skubal was seen removing his glove and cap while Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt and team trainers rushed to his aid. Fry was on the ground for several minutes before being helped to his feet and taken to Lutheran Medical Center for further evaluation.
The emotional scene left players and fans alike in shock. Skubal, the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, paced the infield as Fry received medical attention. He later threw a wild pitch to George Valera, who replaced Fry, allowing the Guardians to score. The inning took a turn for the Tigers when Skubal was also called for a balk, contributing to a three-run rally that gave Cleveland a 3-2 lead.
In a dramatic turn of events, the Guardians ultimately triumphed over the Tigers with a final score of 5-2. This victory ties Cleveland with Detroit at the top of the AL Central, intensifying the race for playoff positioning.
As Fry’s condition remains under evaluation, the Guardians organization is expected to provide updates on his health in the coming hours. Fans and teammates alike are hoping for a swift recovery for the young player following this frightening incident.
Stay tuned for more developments on this story as officials share more information about Fry’s status and its implications for the Guardians’ season.
