Orioles' McCann Shows Unbelievable Toughness After Taking Fastball to the Face
Baltimore Orioles catcher James McCann demonstrated extraordinary resilience and fortitude on Monday afternoon, enduring a harrowing ordeal after being struck in the face by a 94.6 mph fastball from Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Yariel RodrÃguez. In an impressive display of perseverance, McCann stayed in the game despite the intense impact, completing all nine innings and contributing to the Orioles' 11-5 victory over the Blue Jays in the first game of a doubleheader.
Following the incident, trainer Brian Ebel quickly attended to McCann, effectively stopping the bleeding. McCann then swapped his blood-soaked jersey for a fresh one and remarkably returned to his post behind the plate. Over the course of the game, his eye began to swell noticeably, but he remained steadfast in his duties as the Orioles' catcher.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde was in awe of McCann's grit. "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," Hyde remarked.
McCann's performance on the field was notable as well. He managed to go 1 for 3, which included the hit-by-pitch, contributing to the Orioles' dominant offensive display. Currently hitting .218/.273/.324 as Adley Rutschman's backup, McCann remains a valuable asset to the team, particularly as they look to solidify their position in the fiercely competitive AL East.
Teammate Tyler Wells expressed his admiration for McCann's toughness, further underscoring the respect he commands within the clubhouse. "He really appreciated McCann's toughness," Wells stated.
McCann is in the final year of a four-year, $40.6 million contract he signed with the New York Mets in December 2020. The Mets are covering the majority of McCann's salary, making him a cost-effective contributor for the Orioles. With the team's record now standing at 63-43, placing them 1 1/2 games up in the AL East standings, McCann's health and availability are pivotal for the Orioles' continued success.
The incident brought back memories of another recent injury within the team. On July 12, Orioles outfielder Heston Kjerstad was hit in the head by a pitch from New York Yankees pitcher Clay Holmes. Kjerstad missed eight days and was placed on the concussion list as a precaution. Given this context, it's likely that the Orioles' management will proceed with caution regarding McCann's condition moving forward.
As McCann undergoes a CT scan to determine the extent of his injuries, the Orioles hope for positive news. His resilience on the field not only underscores his physical toughness but also his mental fortitude, setting a powerful example for his teammates. McCann's ability to perform under such pressure will undoubtedly be a source of inspiration as the Orioles aim to maintain their momentum in the remaining games of the season.
McCann's situation is a stark reminder of the inherent risks of the sport and the unpredictable nature of baseball. While players like McCann and Kjerstad demonstrate remarkable courage and determination, their experiences also emphasize the importance of proper medical evaluation and cautious management of injuries. The Orioles will likely take all necessary precautions to ensure McCann's health and avoid any long-term repercussions.
In summary, James McCann's toughness and dedication were on full display in an unforgettable game that highlighted both his skills and resilience. As the Orioles continue their push in the AL East, the team's success will, in part, hinge on McCann's health and perseverance. For now, the baseball world collectively holds its breath, hoping for a swift and full recovery for one of the game's most resolute competitors.