Major League Baseball player Chris Bassitt was hospitalized and left requiring surgery after being hit in the face by a 100mph comeback ball.
The hard-to-watch injury occurred on Wednesday (August 18), as the 32-year-old Oakland Athletics pitcher was struck by a ball after it was hit by Chicago White Sox center fielder Brian Goodwin. Per The Sun, the speed of the ball later clocked in at 100.1 mph.
After being hit in the side of the face, the MLB ace immediately hit the ground, clutching his head.
The commentator can be heard saying: "Back to Bassitt - Oh my goodness!"
After being transported off the field, Bassitt was transported to a Chicago hospital, where he was diagnosed with a displaced tripod fracture in his right cheek. The injury will require surgery, The Sun reports.
Bassitt also required stitches after suffering two facial lacerations.
Following the horror injury, Bassitt's teammates could be seen kneeling on the field with their caps and gloves off.
In a statement, Athletics General Manager David Forst said: "We're all incredibly grateful that Chris is doing as well as he is today [...] We're thinking about everything that the team went through last night.
"Chris had incredible care from the second Nick [Paparesta] reach him on the mound, to everybody at the stadium, and the ambulance, the hospital.
"We're very grateful for the care that he got [...] I give Bob [Melvin] and the coaches a lot of credit for getting everybody through that, and we'll move forward as a team today."
He was released from the hospital late Wednesday evening.
Bassitt later took to his Twitter account to provide an update with his 12,000+ followers, writing: From the bottom of my heart, I’d like to thank the @whitesox and @Athletics staff, front offices, and owners.
"The support my family and I’ve received has been overwhelming. I’d also like to thank Rush University Medical Center and their staff. God is good. Can’t wait to get back!"
Former pitcher and World Series champion Mark Gubicza tweeted his support to Bassitt, writing: "Wishing you the very best, Chris. From a fellow pitcher to one of my favorites to watch compete right now, I can’t wait to see you back on the mound. My best to your family as well."
We wish Bassitt the very best in his recovery.
