Blue Jays' Joey Loperfido Leaves Game After Knee Hit by Fastball vs Rockies

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Joey Loperfido was hit on the right knee by a 98 mph fastball from Colorado Rockies reliever Angel Chivilli during the sixth inning of their game on Tuesday, forcing him to leave the contest. The 26-year-old, who has been a key contributor since his mid-season call-up with a .386 batting average and three home runs, was helped off the field by manager John Schneider and the team's athletic trainer. Loperfido is expected to undergo X-rays to assess any structural damage, with the team likely to provide an update soon. Myles Straw replaced Loperfido in left field and may see increased playing time depending on the injury's severity. Loperfido's emergence from Triple-A to a regular lineup spot has been a significant storyline this season, highlighting his impact in the Blue Jays' postseason push. No immediate information on his recovery timeline has been released.