Cleveland Guardians designated hitter David Fry sustained multiple facial and nasal fractures after being struck in the face by a 99 mph pitch from Detroit Tigers' Tarik Skubal during a game on Tuesday. The incident occurred as Fry attempted to bunt and was struck in the nose and mouth, collapsing in the batter's box. He was initially treated at Lutheran Medical Center and later transferred to Cleveland Clinic Main Campus for further observation before being released and is now resting at home. Fortunately, his injuries are minimally displaced and won't require surgery, with a projected recovery time of six to eight weeks.

Following the injury, Fry was placed on the 10-day injured list, and outfielder Johnathan Rodríguez was recalled from Triple-A Columbus. The pitch was ruled a foul ball, and George Valera pinch-hit in Fry’s place. Cleveland took the lead later in the inning and won 5-2, tying with the Tigers for first place in the AL Central.

Fry had a .171 batting average with eight home runs and 23 RBIs over 66 games this season. A 2024 All-Star, he has played exclusively for Cleveland for three seasons.

Skubal, visibly distressed after the incident, visited Fry in the hospital and expressed sympathy, saying it was an unintentional and unfortunate play. Both Skubal and Detroit manager A.J. Hinch emphasized the importance of compassion and humanity in such moments.

The Guardians' victory in the game tied the AL Central division race, highlighting the team's resilience in the face of adversity. As Fry begins his recovery, the Guardians will look to maintain their momentum in the division standings.