McCann's Grit Shines Despite Being Hit by a Fastball
Baltimore Orioles catcher James McCann showcased extraordinary resilience on Monday afternoon, remaining on the field after taking a 94.6 mph fastball to the face. The pitch from Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Yariel Rodríguez left him bloodied, but undeterred.
Despite the jarring blow, McCann stayed in the game, completing all nine innings and contributing to the Orioles' 11-5 triumph over the Blue Jays in the first game of a doubleheader. Trainer Brian Ebel provided immediate care, stemming the bleeding and allowing McCann to change his blood-soaked jersey before resuming his pivotal role behind the plate. By the end of the game, McCann’s eye was notably swollen, raising concerns about the extent of his injuries.
Toughness and Dedication
It is suspected that McCann has sustained a broken nose, and he is scheduled for a CT scan to confirm the injury. Remarkably, McCann managed to go 1-for-3 in the game, his hit-by-pitch accounting for one of his plate appearances. His current stats reflect a .218 batting average, a .273 on-base percentage, and a .324 slugging percentage as the backup to Adley Rutschman.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde commented on McCann's performance and determination: "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."
McCann's toughness did not go unnoticed by his teammates. Pitcher Tyler Wells expressed his admiration, stating, "He really appreciated McCann's toughness." This sentiment encapsulates the ethos of a team that has shown resilience and grit throughout the season.
Season Progress and Comparisons
With the victory, the Orioles improved their record to 63-43, further solidifying their lead in the AL East standings by 1 1/2 games. The team has been performing admirably, and McCann's fortitude only adds to their momentum. His presence and performance are crucial as the Orioles navigate the latter part of the season.
It’s worth noting that this is not the first time an Orioles player has faced a similar situation this season. On July 12, outfielder Heston Kjerstad was struck in the head by a pitch from New York Yankees pitcher Clay Holmes, which led to an eight-day stint on the concussion list. This precedent of caution will likely influence how the Orioles manage McCann's condition moving forward.
Contract and Financial Considerations
McCann is currently in the final year of a four-year, $40.6 million contract signed with the New York Mets in December 2020. Interestingly, the Mets are covering the majority of his salary, which provides some financial relief to the Orioles.
The Road Ahead
As the Orioles eye a strong finish to the season, McCann’s health and availability will be critical. The team's management is expected to monitor his condition closely, ensuring that he is in optimal shape for the games that lie ahead.
McCann's dedication and toughness have not only earned him respect within the clubhouse but have also showcased the resilience required to excel in Major League Baseball. As his CT scan results are awaited, the hope is that he has indeed dodged a significant injury, allowing him to continue contributing to the Orioles' success.
McCann's performance serves as a testament to the strength and perseverance of professional athletes who, despite facing painful and potentially serious injuries, remain committed to their roles and their teams.