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Source: San Diego Padres
Summary
San Diego Padres infielder Jake Cronenworth was hit in the face by a 96 mph fastball against the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday night. Despite being checked out by trainers, Cronenworth remained in the game and the team rallied for a 4-1 victory. Manager Craig Stammen said Cronenworth, who is the Padres’ all-time hit-by-pitch leader, had to stay in the game due to his hockey background. Cronenworth added that it was the first time he was struck in the face since his hockey days.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script. Cronenworth takes a pitch to the chin, but stays in the game. The Padres rally late, and the team escapes with a win. It’s a tale as old as time.
The delayed game, the grit, the “hockey player” comment – it all felt like a scene from a sports movie. Cronenworth’s reaction was the most believable part: “First reaction was just: Try to make sure my jaw’s OK.”
This one felt recognizable early. Cronenworth’s chin took a 96 mph fastball, and he stayed in the game. It’s a Padres win, but at what cost?
It’s not the first time a player has taken a hit and kept playing. It’s not even the first time Cronenworth has been hit by a pitch. But it’s a reminder that in baseball, players are expected to tough it out. And Cronenworth did just that.
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Author: Evan Null
