Giants outfielder Harrison Bader involved in early-morning scooter crash, team investigation ongoing
Harrison Bader was hospitalized after a scooter collision with a fire truck in San Francisco early Sunday; the Giants say he has not fully cooperated with their internal inquiry and could face contract consequences.
San Francisco police responded to a scooter crash at about 1:50 a.m. on Sunday near Balboa Cafe in the Cow Hollow district, where Giants outfielder Harrison Bader collided with the rear of a San Francisco Fire Department truck, according to eyewitnesses reported by local media. The fire engine’s wheel rolled over Bader’s foot, and he was taken to a hospital for treatment.
The department confirmed a scooter-related incident at 1:53 a.m. but did not name the player. Witnesses said Bader had been drinking the previous night and into the early morning hours before the accident.
The Giants, who were in San Diego for a series against the Padres, have opened an internal investigation. The Athletic reported that Bader "has not fully cooperated with the team’s investigation" and has declined to speak with reporters, despite encouragement from the organization.
Team officials noted that scooter riding may be classified as a high-risk activity prohibited by the league’s collective bargaining agreement unless a player obtains written permission, raising the possibility of contract repercussions.
Bader, in the first year of a two-year, $20.5 million contract, has appeared in 30 games this season, posting a .170 batting average with five home runs while battling plantar fasciitis in his left foot. He was scheduled to see a specialist in Indianapolis when the scooter incident caused further injury to the same foot. Giants manager Tony Vitello said he lacks detailed information and referred questions to the front office, adding that it is unlikely Bader will return this season given his existing foot issues.