UPDATE: Cleveland Guardians’ designated hitter and catcher David Fry is recovering remarkably well after suffering a severe injury from a 99 mph fastball that struck him in the face during a game against the Detroit Tigers on September 26, 2023. Just five days later, Fry was seen joking with teammates in the clubhouse ahead of the game against the Texas Rangers.
The incident occurred when Fry squared to bunt, and the pitch from Tarik Skubal hit him directly in the nose and mouth, causing immediate chaos on the field. Fry collapsed in the batter’s box, clutching his bloodied face as medical staff and his manager, Stephen Vogt, rushed to assist him. Fry commented on the incident, saying, “It could have been way worse. They just kept saying an inch up … an inch down, we could have had some real problems, but all in all, I feel great.”
Despite visible swelling and stitches, Fry is not expected to require surgery and will have a follow-up appointment on October 5, 2023. His return to the field remains uncertain as he deals with the aftermath of this traumatic event.
Fry’s wife, Rebekah, who is seven months pregnant, watched the incident unfold from their home in Louisiana. She remained calm despite the alarming scenes on television, demonstrating her strong support for Fry during this challenging time.
“She was able to fly in the next day and come see me. That was my main concern, her and my daughter being worried,” Fry shared. His daughter, Evelyn, celebrated her second birthday on September 30, 2023, and the Guardians organized a surprise birthday party for her, featuring players singing “Happy Birthday” and special guests from “Frozen.”
The team has kept Fry’s presence alive in the clubhouse by displaying his No. 6 jersey prominently, especially as they clinched a playoff spot following a 3-2 victory over the Rangers. Though Fry will be absent from the playoff roster, his teammates emphasize the significant role he plays within the team.
“He’s such a big part of our team. We missed his presence the first couple months of the year… He should have been out there with us,” Vogt remarked, highlighting Fry’s importance as a player and teammate.
As Fry continues his recovery, all eyes are on his progress and the Guardians’ upcoming playoff journey. Fans are rallying behind Fry, eager for updates on his condition and to see him back on the field. Stay tuned for further developments on Fry’s recovery and the Guardians’ performance in the postseason.