The Yankee's spring training 2.0 in The Bronx took a scary turn on Saturday (July 4), after starting pitcher Masahiro Tanaka suffered a horrifying injury when he took a line drive off to his head.
The moment came during a simulated game at Yankee Stadium, as Giancarlo Stanton hit the ball straight into the side of Tanaka's head.
The hard impact caused Tanaka to collapse on the mound, as other players rushed to his aide.
You can see the scary moment below (Warning - This is not for the faint-hearted):In the video, Stanton can be seen immediately doubling over and holding his head the moment the ball connects with Tanaka.
According to the New York Post, Tanaka was down for approximately five minutes before managing to sit up.
He was then helped to his feet and walked off the field with the assistance of two trainers, before being transported to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital for further evaluation and testing.
Taking to Twitter to inform their fans, officials from the New York Yankees tweeted: "RHP Masahiro Tanaka was hit in the head with a line drive during today’s sim game.
"He is currently alert, responsive and walking under his own power. He is being sent to
NewYork–Presbyterian Hospital for further evaluation and testing."
Providing an update on the Japanese player, officials tweeted three hours later that Tanaka had been released from hospital.
Tanaka has also taken to social media to let his 1.6 million Twitter followers know that he is fighting to get back on the mound as soon as possible.
"I appreciate all the support," the 31-year-old player tweeted. "I feel it a bit right now, but I’m all good. Going to try to get back on the mound ASAP! Thanks again for all the encouraging words!"
In response to the good news, baseball writer Eric Hubs joked: "Tanaka might be immortal."
We wish Tanaka all the best on his recovery and hope to see him back on the mound soon.
