Dustin May Injured by Line Drive, Exists Game Early

A Major League Baseball game witnessed a scary moment on Wednesday night when the Milwaukee Brewers’ starting pitcher, Dustin May, made a swift exit in the first inning.

May’s night ended abruptly as he delivered his debut pitch. New York Mets center fielder A.J. Ewing sent May’s 95.8 mph sinker directly back at him. Although May attempted to turn and shield himself, the ball, traveling at 106 mph, struck him in the back.

The “Foul Territory” podcast shared on social media that May was hit on his right shoulder. Third baseman David Hamilton quickly retrieved the ball and managed to get Ewing out at first base.

May, however, was left in visible pain, kneeling on the grass. The training staff attended to him, as even breathing appeared painful. Despite attempting to continue by throwing several pitches, he struggled, raising his arm and shaking his right hand in between throws, as reported by the Associated Press.

Ultimately, May could not continue the game. He exited the field, shaking his head in frustration, but received an ovation from fans for his effort. Robert Gasser took over to complete the inning.

This incident marked the first time a pitcher exited after a single pitch since Pablo Lopez on July 2, 2021, as noted by Jerry Beach of the Associated Press.

Later, Zach Braziller of the New York Post reported that May did not sustain a severe injury from the comebacker. “The Brewers later said he suffered a right scapula contusion and that X-rays came back negative,” Braziller stated. Although May avoided fractures, he is expected to endure some pain.

A line drive at such speed likely leaves a substantial bruise, if not a knot. Fortunately, May still has time before the playoffs. With the Brewers holding the best record in baseball at 81-51, they aim for the pennant and possibly the World Series in October.

May will benefit from using September to recover fully before the postseason push.