Pitcher Dustin May’s Quick Exit After First Inning Injury

A troubling incident during a Major League Baseball game on Wednesday led to an early exit for the starting pitcher of the Milwaukee Brewers.

Dustin May made his only pitch during the first inning, a 95.8 mph sinker that New York Mets center fielder A.J. Ewing hit with force. The return speed was 106 mph, and although May attempted to turn away, the ball struck him in the back.

The ‘Foul Territory’ podcast shared on social media that May was hit on his right shoulder.

Despite third baseman David Hamilton’s successful play to first base to retire Ewing, May knelt on the grass, clearly in pain. It was apparent that breathing was difficult for him due to the injury.

May attempted to continue by throwing a few pitches, shaking and raising his right hand between throws. Nevertheless, he eventually had to leave the game. Fans acknowledged his effort with an ovation as he departed the field in visible frustration. Robert Gasser took over to finish the inning.

According to Jerry Beach of the Associated Press, such an event hasn’t occurred since Pablo Lopez left a game after one pitch on July 2, 2021.

Later, as reported by Zach Braziller of the New York Post, initial evaluations indicate that May’s injury isn’t serious.

“The Brewers later announced he suffered a right scapula contusion and X-rays came back negative,” Braziller reported.

Although no bones were broken, May is expected to experience discomfort. A hit of such velocity tends to cause a significant bruise or knot.

Fortunately, playoff season is not yet underway. The Brewers, currently leading with an 81-51 record, aim for a successful playoff performance this October. September presents an opportunity for May to recover in anticipation of these games.