GUARDIANS DAVID FRY SUFFERS FACIAL FRACTURES FROM HBP

Guardians DH David Fry being hospitalized after being hit in the face by a 99-mph fastball from Tigers ace Tarik Skubal

What happened

  • During a game on September 23, 2025 (U.S. time), in the sixth inning, David Fry was attempting to bunt with runners on first and third.

  • Instead of making contact, he was struck directly in the face (in the nose and mouth area) by a 99 mph fastball thrown by Tarik Skubal.

  • Fry collapsed immediately, bleeding, and was tended to on the field by medical staff. 

  • He was conscious throughout the process, gave a thumbs-up signal, and was carted off the field. 

  • He was first taken to Lutheran Medical Center, then transferred to the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus for further testing and observation.

  • The Guardians’ manager, Stephen Vogt, later confirmed Fry is “alert and in good spirits.” 

  • The team has said the injury involved facial fractures and a broken nose


Why this is serious (and common risks)

Being struck in the face by a 99 mph pitch is a very dangerous injury in baseball. Some of the risks include:

  • Facial bone fractures (cheek, nose, orbital bones)

  • Damage to the sinuses, nasal cavities, or teeth

  • Soft tissue lacerations / bleeding

  • Concussion, depending on the impact

  • Injuries to eyes (if trajectory is close)

  • Airway compromise (swelling, bleeding)

  • Long-term cosmetic or functional effects

Given that Fry is reportedly sustaining facial fractures and a broken nose, medical teams will carefully assess for further structural damage, internal injuries, risk of infection, and breathing / airway safety.


How pitchers and teams respond emotionally / ethically

  • Tarik Skubal was visibly shaken after the incident. He dropped his glove and hat, covered his face, and later said he’d already reached out to Fry. 


  • Many players and observers noted that “health is more important than the game.” 

  • In high-velocity sports, these kinds of accidents, while rare, remind us of the dangers inherent in the game and the importance of helmet and protective designs.


 Updates

  • Medical updates from the team / hospital: Detailed imaging (CT, MRI) will reveal exact fracture locations, whether any surgery is needed, and any other internal damage.

  • Recovery timeline: The severity of fractures, need for surgery, and soft tissue healing will affect how long Fry is out.

  • Long-term effects: Even after healing, there may be lingering issues (nasal breathing, facial symmetry, dental / cosmetic work).

  • Team / roster implications: The Guardians may need to adjust lineup / DH spot while he recovers.

  • Rule / safety discussions: Incidents like this sometimes reignite debates about safety measures (protective face gear, helmet modifications).

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