It could have been a lot worse for Chris Bassitt.
The A’s ace suffered a right cheek fracture after being hit in the head by a line drive during his start against the White Sox on Tuesday night, the team said in a statement Wednesday.
MLB Network reported that Bassitt — who had to be carted off the field — would have surgery in three-to-five days when the swelling comes down.
“We are grateful to the White Sox, their medical staff, and the doctors and nurses at Rush [University Medical Center] for their excellent care,” the Athletics said in the release.
The injury occurred when White Sox outfielder Brian Goodwin hit a line drive — with a 100.1-mph exit velocity — in the second inning. Bassitt immediately crashed to the ground and covered his face.
The A’s said Bassitt, 32, received stitches for facial lacerations at a Chicago hospital Tuesday night before being released.
Chris Bassitt clutches at his face after getting hit by a line drive against the White Sox on Aug. 17, 2021. Getty ImagesBassitt was a first-time All-Star this season and was 12-4 with a 3.22 ERA.
“Chris will be better than ever and back to doing what he loves soon, and thanks everyone for their prayers and support,” his agents at Meister Sports said in a statement.
“Things like this remind us that in most ways we are of one heart and one mind.”
