Ryan Vogelsong Hit in Head, Removed From Game
Pittsburgh Pirates starter Ryan Vogelsong was struck in the head by a pitch during an at-bat against the Colorado Rockies on May 23. Vogelsong was at-bat with the bases loaded in the second inning against Rockies starter Jordan Lyles, and was struck by a 92 mph fastball from Lyles on an 0-2 count.
Photojournalist Christopher Horner of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review captured a stunning shot of the play.
#Pirates pitcher Ryan Vogelsong is hit in the face by a pitch during the 2nd inning against the Rockies today. pic.twitter.com/E7bIvx5huw
— Christopher Horner (@Hornerfoto1) May 23, 2016
Vogelsong was transported to a local hospital and was diagnosed with a left eye injury, including the orbital bone surrounding it, per ESPN.com. After being hit, Vogelsong fell to the ground and there appeared to be blood coming from his nose. ESPN notes that it was unclear if Vogelsong ever lost consciousness.
Vogelsong was later carted off the field and taken away in an ambulance. Lyles shared his concerns via MLB.com.
"“It’s tough getting hit up there. That’s tough to see. Hopefully, nothing serious comes out of it and he’s able to get back to his teammates shortly,” Lyles said."
The 38-year-old was in the beginning of a solid outing, as he had thrown two scoreless innings while striking out two batters. He has a 4.12 ERA in 11 appearances this season, and was becoming a key component of the Pirates bullpen and as a spot starter.