Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman hospitalized with facial fractures after foul ball impact
Alex Bregman suffered facial fractures when a foul ball struck him in the head during a game against the Cincinnati Reds; he is expected to avoid surgery and hopes to return for the postseason.
Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman was hit in the face by a foul ball while standing in the on-deck circle on Sunday. The ball, fouled off by teammate Michael Busch after a pitch from Cincinnati Reds pitcher Luis Mey, struck Bregman's left cheekbone and caused bleeding and swelling. He walked to the dugout, covered his face, and was later taken to a hospital for X-rays and CT scans.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell said after the game, "He got hit in the left cheekbone essentially, under the eye. He was bleeding from his nose a little. There's some swelling. We hope he's OK."
Bregman posted a photo of his injuries on social media, noting his gratitude for messages and his intention to return. He is currently batting .262 with 26 home runs and 89 RBIs this season, after signing a five-year, $175 million contract in January.
Michael Busch commented on the incident, saying, "It just happens so fast. [Mey] is throwing the ball hard and it comes off hard. Any time it enters the head area, it's always a scary thing. We try to focus on the game, but it's tough. Hopefully he's OK, first and foremost."
Medical reports indicate that Bregman will not require surgery and is expected to be ready for the postseason if his recovery proceeds as planned.