As spring training continues in Florida and Arizona, players are getting themselves geared up for the regular season. Some who are on the cusp are trying to prove they should stay with the main organization (or the show as they call it), while others who are already solidified are simply getting their stride back.
On March 6th, Boston Red Sox infielder Justin Turner showed kids what “never take your eye off the ball” can mean, when he took just the 8th pitch of the game from Matt Manning directly to his left cheek. The 38-year-old journeyman fell to the ground, and medical personnel rushed to his aide immediately. Walking off the field with a blood-soaked towel, he was rushed to a Fort Myers, FL hospital.
Later that evening, Turner’s wife Kourtney updated people via her Instagram stories, which were later shared by Justin. “16 stitches and a lot of swelling but we are thanking God for no fractures & clear scans. Thank you to everyone that reached out about Justin and sent prayers. We’re home now and he’s resting (okay – maybe listening to the replay of the game).”
Watching that pitch, it becomes clear just how dangerous the sport can be. While Manning remained in the game, he will end up getting his at some point. Accidents may happen, but you can guarantee someone down the line will pay the price for hitting Turner in the face like this.
