An alarming moment in the first inning of a Major League Baseball game on Wednesday night resulted in an early exit for Dustin May, the starting pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers.
May’s troubling moment began with his initial pitch, which turned out to be his only one for the evening. New York Mets center fielder, A.J. Ewing, hit a strong line drive using May’s 95.8 mph sinker. The ball, moving at a staggering 106 mph, struck May in his back as he attempted to turn away from it.
The “Foul Territory” podcast on social media highlighted that the impact hurt May’s right shoulder.
Following the strike, third baseman David Hamilton grabbed the ball and managed to throw it to first base, resulting in Ewing’s out. Despite the play, May showed visible signs of pain, kneeling on the grass as training staff tended to him. The injury appeared to make even breathing difficult.
According to reports from the Associated Press, May tested his capabilities by throwing several pitches, raising his arm and shaking his right hand between attempts. Nonetheless, his effort to stay in the game was in vain. As he left the field, May’s frustration was apparent, though fans appreciated his bravery with an ovation. Pitcher Robert Gasser stepped in to complete the inning.
This marks the first instance since July 2, 2021, when a pitcher exited after a single pitch, noted by Jerry Beach of the Associated Press.
Later information from Zach Braziller of the New York Post suggested that May avoided extensive injury from the comebacker.
“The Brewers later confirmed that he sustained a right scapula contusion and that X-rays revealed no fractures,” Braziller reported, although the pain might linger.
Such incidents often result in significant bruising. Luckily for May, the playoffs remain a few weeks away. With the Brewers riding high with an 81-51 record, securing the best standing in baseball as of Wednesday, their aspirations include both a pennant and a possible World Series appearance this October. May would benefit from utilizing September to recuperate for the crucial games ahead.