Shocking Injury: Rays’ Bigge Carted Off After Foul Ball Strikes Dugout

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Hunter Bigge faced a scary moment during a game against the Baltimore Orioles. In the dugout, a foul ball hit him after being struck by Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman. The players seemed shaken, and staff quickly rushed to help him.

After receiving medical care and having his neck stabilized, Bigge gave a thumbs-up to the crowd as he was taken off the field. This brief gesture brought some relief to onlookers, who were clearly concerned.

Reports indicated that Bigge was conscious but was taken to a Tampa hospital for further checks. Rays manager Kevin Cash noted that Bigge was alert and was undergoing tests. Bigge was hit on the side of his face, but thankfully, he never lost consciousness.

Rutschman, who was visibly affected by the incident, shared his concern, saying, "It’s really, really scary. Praying for him and hoping he’s doing okay." Such incidents remind fans and players of the unpredictable nature of baseball.

This isn’t the first time a player has been injured by a foul ball in the dugout. According to a 2021 survey by the sports medicine journal BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, about 10% of baseball players have experienced similar situations. This statistic highlights the risks players face, even when they are not on the field.

Bigge, 27, joined the Rays from the Chicago Cubs last season in a trade. He has been recovering from a lat strain since early May. As fans await updates on his health, the incident has sparked conversations online about player safety and protective measures in dugouts.

For more on sports medicine and player safety, you can visit the American Journal of Sports Medicine.

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