Baltimore Orioles Catcher James McCann Displays Remarkable Toughness After Taking Fastball to the Face
Baltimore Orioles catcher James McCann demonstrated extraordinary resilience on Monday afternoon when he continued playing after being struck in the face by a 94.6 mph fastball from Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Yariel RodrÃguez.
The incident occurred during the first game of a doubleheader, but McCann, showing a testament to his fortitude, remained in the game and completed all nine innings. His valiant effort contributed significantly to the Orioles' resounding 11-5 victory over the Blue Jays.
Immediately after the impact, Orioles trainer Brian Ebel rushed to McCann's aid and managed to stem the bleeding. Despite the traumatic hit, McCann changed out of his blood-soaked jersey and resumed his position behind the plate, determined to help his team clinch the win.
As the game progressed, McCann's eye became noticeably swollen, heightening concerns about the severity of his injuries. The Orioles suspect that McCann may have suffered a broken nose, and he is scheduled to undergo a CT scan to assess the extent of the damage.
Despite the injury, McCann still contributed offensively, going 1 for 3 in the game, which included the hit-by-pitch. Currently, McCann is batting .218/.273/.324, serving as the backup to Adley Rutschman.
In the final year of a four-year, $40.6 million contract he signed with the New York Mets in December 2020, McCann's salary is predominantly covered by the Mets. This financial arrangement has allowed the Orioles to benefit from McCann's experience and skillset without a significant financial burden.
The Orioles' victory improved their record to 63-43, positioning them 1 1/2 games ahead in the AL East standings. The team's success has been a collective effort, and McCann's tenacity in the face of adversity exemplifies the resilience and determination that have driven the Orioles this season.
This is not the first time an Orioles player has been struck by a pitch this season. On July 12, outfielder Heston Kjerstad was hit in the head by a pitch from New York Yankees pitcher Clay Holmes and missed eight days while on the concussion list. Given this recent history, the Orioles' management is likely to tread cautiously with McCann's condition, prioritizing his health and long-term availability.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde praised McCann's toughness, saying, "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 expressed admiration for McCann's grit, stating, "He really appreciated McCann's toughness."
McCann's health and availability will undoubtedly be crucial as the Orioles continue their push for success in the AL East. His courage and determination in the face of adversity have earned him the respect of his teammates and fans alike, highlighting the essential role he plays on the team.
As the Orioles await the results of McCann's CT scan, the focus remains on maintaining their momentum and ensuring the well-being of their players. McCann's heroic performance on Monday serves as a reminder of the physical and mental demands of professional baseball, where resilience and toughness are as vital as skill and talent.
In conclusion, James McCann's unwavering determination and remarkable toughness in the face of physical adversity have left an indelible mark on the Baltimore Orioles' season. His willingness to persevere through pain embodies the spirit of a team fighting for every win and underscores the tenacity required to compete at the highest level of the sport.