UPDATE: Cleveland Guardians designated hitter David Fry has been hospitalized after suffering a broken nose and facial fractures from a high-speed pitch during the sixth inning against the Detroit Tigers. The incident unfolded on June 27, 2023, as Fry attempted to bunt a blistering 99 mph fastball from pitcher Tarik Skubal in a game that ended with a *5-2 victory* for the Guardians, tying the American League Central race.
Manager Stephen Vogt provided an immediate update, stating, “He is doing OK. He’s in good spirits,” shortly after visiting Fry in the hospital. “He’s upright. He’s alert.” This news comes as the Guardians plan to release a more detailed update later today, increasing concern among fans and teammates alike.
The incident occurred as Fry squared up to bunt, only to have the pitch strike him directly in the face. Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene as Fry collapsed, clutching his bloodied face while Skubal, visibly shaken, threw off his glove and cap as medical staff rushed to assist. Fry lay on the ground for several minutes before being helped to his feet and giving a thumbs-up as he was carted off the field.
Authorities report that Fry was initially transported from Lutheran Medical Center to the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus for further evaluation and observation. Vogt described the impact as “straight to the face,” a moment that left everyone inside Progressive Field shaken. “We’re all thinking about David and his family right now. Obviously, we’re glad he is OK, but it was a really scary moment,” he added.
Skubal, the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, expressed his distress over the incident. “It was really tough,” he said. “I’ve already reached out to him. I’m sure his phone is blowing up. I just want to make sure he’s all right. Hopefully, he stays that way.”
Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan shared his feelings after witnessing Fry’s injury. “Definitely really scary,” Kwan noted. “For David to even try something like that, that’s just who he is. He’s a selfless kind of guy, and especially in a position like that, he’s tough. Thankfully he had some humor when he came up, but you don’t want to see a guy that’s been with you pretty much the whole year get hurt.”
Following the incident, the Guardians capitalized on the disruption as Skubal threw a wild pitch to George Valera, who replaced Fry, allowing Cleveland to score. Skubal’s erratic performance continued with an error during a blind throw attempt and a balk in the sixth inning, which contributed to the Guardians’ rally for three runs, taking the lead without hitting a ball out of the infield.
As fans and teammates await further news on Fry’s condition, the atmosphere remains tense but hopeful. Stay tuned for updates as the Guardians aim to keep their playoff hopes alive amidst this troubling development.
