URGENT UPDATE: Cleveland Guardians’ designated hitter David Fry is hospitalized with a broken nose and facial fractures after being hit in the face by a pitch from Tarik Skubal during the sixth inning. This incident occurred in Cleveland’s 5-2 victory over the Detroit Tigers on July 18, 2023, an outcome that has intensified the American League Central race.
Fry was attempting to bunt a blistering 99 mph fastball when the pitch struck him in the face, leading to a chaotic scene at Progressive Field. Eyewitnesses reported Fry collapsing in the batter’s box, clutching his bloodied face as medical personnel rushed to his aid. Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt confirmed Fry is in good spirits following the incident, stating, “He is doing OK. He’s upright. He’s alert.”
Fry was immediately transported from Lutheran Medical Center to Cleveland Clinic Main Campus for further testing and observation. Vogt visited Fry in the hospital and described the impact as “straight to the face,” expressing concern for Fry and his family during this distressing time.
“We’re all thinking about David and his family right now. Obviously, we’re glad he is OK, but it’s a really scary moment,” Vogt added.
As Fry was being assisted, a visibly shaken Skubal, the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, expressed his concern for Fry’s well-being. “Really tough… I just want to make sure he’s all right. Hopefully, he seemed like he was OK coming off the field,” Skubal stated after the game.
Fry’s teammate, Steven Kwan, also shared his apprehension. “Definitely really scary. For David to even try something like that [bunt], that’s just who he is,” Kwan said. “It’s really scary, but thankfully he had some humor coming off the field, so hopefully we get some good news.”
Following the incident, Skubal struggled to regain his composure on the mound, resulting in a wild pitch that allowed George Valera, who replaced Fry, to score during the inning. Skubal also made an error while attempting a blind throw to first base, contributing to Cleveland’s rally for three runs in the sixth.
As the Guardians await further medical updates on Fry’s condition, fans and teammates alike are rallying for their injured star. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
