Rays Pitcher Hospitalized After Foul Ball Hits Face in Dugout

Rays pitcher Hunter Bigge was struck in the face by a 105 mph foul ball hit by Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman during the top of the seventh inning, resulting in Bigge being carted off the field and taken to a hospital for evaluation. Despite the frightening incident, Bigge remained conscious, was able to communicate with first responders, and gave a thumbs up as he was stretchered off, earning a standing ovation from the crowd. Rays manager Kevin Cash confirmed that Bigge was hit on the side of his face and was in stable condition while undergoing tests, with no confirmed neck or eye injuries. Bigge, 27, who was already on the injured list with a lat strain, has posted a strong performance this season with a 2.40 ERA in 13 relief appearances. The game resumed after an eight-minute delay, with the Orioles holding on to a 4-1 victory. The incident was widely covered, highlighting the tense moment and the relief following Bigge's positive initial response.