In a display of extraordinary toughness, Baltimore Orioles catcher James McCann continued to play after taking a 94.6 mph fastball to the face on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred during the Orioles' opening game of a doubleheader against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Despite the intense impact, McCann maintained his presence on the field, completing all nine innings and contributing to the Orioles' 11-5 victory. Trainer Brian Ebel promptly tended to McCann, managing to stop the bleeding.
After changing his blood-soaked jersey, McCann returned to his position behind the plate, demonstrating remarkable resilience. As the game progressed, McCann's eye became notably swollen, yet he continued to perform admirably.
Suspected Injury
It is suspected that McCann sustained a broken nose from the incident, and he is scheduled to undergo a CT scan. Despite the potential injury, McCann went 1 for 3 in the game, which included the hit-by-pitch, showcasing his determination and grit.
McCann's offensive performance in the game was a reflection of his season as he holds a batting average of .218 with an on-base percentage of .273 and a slugging percentage of .324. As Adley Rutschman's backup, McCann’s role is crucial to the Orioles' depth at the catcher position.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde praised McCann's resilience, stating, "He is incredibly, incredibly tough. Catches eight more innings after that. He doesn't have a head or eye trauma or injury. We're suspecting it's a broken nose. He's going to get a CT scan tomorrow. All signs right now are we dodged a major bullet."
Teammate Tyler Wells also commended McCann's toughness, highlighting the respect and admiration from his peers.
Contract and Financials
Currently in the final year of a four-year, $40.6 million contract he signed with the New York Mets in December 2020, McCann's contributions to the Orioles come at a fraction of the cost to the team, as the Mets are paying the majority of his salary.
Orioles’ Standings
The victory on Monday improved the Orioles' record to 63-43, positioning them 1 1/2 games ahead in the AL East standings. This success is a testament to the team's resilience and depth, even when faced with injuries to key players.
Just weeks earlier, on July 12, Orioles outfielder Heston Kjerstad was similarly hit in the head by a pitch from New York Yankees pitcher Clay Holmes, leading to an eight-day absence and a stint on the concussion list. This history underscores the importance of player health and the caution that the Orioles' management will likely exercise with McCann's condition moving forward.
Looking Forward
McCann's health and availability will be vital elements in the Orioles' continued success this season. The team's cautious approach to Kjerstad's previous injury indicates a careful and measured response to McCann's situation. Ensuring McCann's full recovery will be crucial as the Orioles aim to solidify their standing in the competitive AL East.
As the Orioles' season progresses, the resilience shown by players like McCann becomes a cornerstone of their narrative. His ability to endure such an injury and still perform at a high level reflects not only his personal toughness but also the collective spirit and determination of the team. The Orioles will need this same level of dedication and grit as they push towards their postseason aspirations.
In the world of professional sports, such instances of fortitude often inspire teammates and elevate the entire team's morale. James McCann's incredible display of toughness serves as a reminder of the resilience and tenacity inherent in baseball, adding another chapter to the storied history of perseverance within the sport.