What Tarik Skubal Said After Hitting David Fry in the Face; A Heartfelt Moment in Baseball

Baseball is a game filled with high-speed action, intense competition, and moments that can take your breath away. On September 23, 2025, one of those moments came when Cleveland Guardians designated hitter David Fry was struck in the face by a 99 mph fastball from Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal. It wasn’t just a painful hit; it was a moment that shook everyone in the stadium, from fans to players.

The pitch, which Fry had attempted to bunt, hit him squarely in the face. Immediately, the game paused as Fry collapsed to the ground, visibly in pain. Players from both teams, along with the crowd, watched in silence as Fry was attended to by medical staff. Skubal, who had thrown the pitch, stood frozen, clearly shaken by what had just happened. His immediate concern for Fry’s well-being was evident—this wasn’t just about the game anymore; it was about something far more human.

David Fry: The Resilient Player

For more updates on Fry’s recovery, visit MLB.

The Pitch That Changed the Game

The incident took place in the sixth inning. With runners on base, Fry was attempting to square up for a bunt. As he positioned himself, Skubal’s fastball came in and, despite the best efforts to get the bat on the ball, struck Fry directly in the face. The force of the pitch left Fry unable to move and caused immediate concern among his teammates, including José Ramírez, who looked on in disbelief.

Fry was quickly carted off the field and transported to Lutheran Medical Center, later transferred to the Cleveland Clinic for further testing. The injury was significant—multiple facial and nasal fractures—but fortunately, it didn’t involve brain trauma or any further complications. Fry remained conscious throughout the ordeal, and his medical team confirmed that he would recover fully within six to eight weeks. The news that surgery wouldn’t be necessary was a relief, but the road to recovery would be challenging.

Skubal’s Gesture: A Human Moment in the Midst of Competition

While the physical injury was severe, it was the emotional aftermath that truly stood out. After the game, Skubal, visibly shaken by what had happened, reached out to Fry with a text message to check on his condition. But it didn’t stop there. Skubal, guided by Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, made the decision to visit Fry in the hospital that very night.

This simple but powerful gesture of sportsmanship spoke volumes about Skubal’s character. In a world often dominated by fierce competition, it’s moments like these that remind us of the humanity that binds athletes together. Skubal’s visit wasn’t about the game—it was about the well-being of a fellow player. “Obviously nothing intentional, but it’s one of those freak baseball plays,” Skubal said, acknowledging that accidents like this are part of the unpredictable nature of the sport.

The Guardians Rally Around Fry

Fry’s teammates were quick to show their support. Vogt, who accompanied Skubal to the hospital, praised the pitcher for his kindness, noting how rare it is for an opposing player to go out of their way like that. “We’re all thinking about David and his family right now,” Vogt said. “It’s a really scary moment, but we’re all glad that David is okay.”

The Guardians, despite their concern for Fry, have moved forward with their season. Fry will be sidelined for a while, but his teammates have rallied around him, eager to see him recover and return to the field. In the meantime, outfielder Johnathan Rodriguez was called up to fill Fry’s spot. The team will miss Fry’s leadership and bat, but they understand the importance of his recovery.

The Path Forward: Fry’s Recovery and the Impact on Baseball

David Fry’s injury was a stark reminder of the dangers that come with baseball—especially the speed and power of the game. But it’s also a testament to the resilience of the players who face these risks every day. Fry’s determination to heal and return to the field will no doubt inspire his teammates and fans. The Guardians are already looking ahead, focusing on getting through this rough patch without their key hitter.

For Skubal, the incident will stick with him, but his handling of the situation showed a side of the game that doesn’t always make the headlines. His visit to Fry was a human moment, a reminder that beyond the rivalry and competition, athletes are just people, and the bond they share can be greater than any game.

David Fry will recover, and Skubal’s empathy will be remembered long after the season ends. This incident, while traumatic, is also a reminder of the deeper connections that sports can foster, both on and off the field. Baseball, at its core, is about more than just competition—it’s about respect, empathy, and the shared experiences that unite us all.