It was a terrifying scene in Cleveland on Tuesday night, but the Guardians are breathing a sigh of relief after first baseman David Fry avoided the worst-case scenario.
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Fry was drilled in the face by a 99-mph heater from Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal in the sixth inning at Progressive Field. He squared around to bunt with runners on the corners, and instead took the pitch flush on the bridge of his nose. Fry stayed down for several minutes before walking off under his own power, a towel pressed against his face as he was carted from the field.
On Wednesday, the Guardians announced Fry suffered multiple fractures but will not require surgery. He's expected to make a full recovery in six to eight weeks. The team also confirmed Fry has been discharged from the hospital and is "resting comfortably."
An update on David Fry.#GuardsBall pic.twitter.com/kxXyrzogQu
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) September 24, 2025
The timing still stings. With Cleveland and Detroit locked in a dead heat atop the AL Central — both clubs at 85-72 entering Wednesday — Fry's absence looms large. He's struggled at the plate this year (.171 over 66 games), but last October he became one of the Guardians' unlikely postseason heroes. His energy and knack for timely hits will be hard to replicate.
Unless Fry can find a way back with protective gear, the injury likely sidelines him for the remainder of the season and MLB playoffs. For now, the Guardians are focused on keeping their clubhouse rally going — Tuesday night's 5-2 comeback win over the Tigers being a prime example.
Fry may be out, but his teammates know what's on the line.
David Fry exited the game after being hit in the face by a pitch.
He was able to walk under his own power and was carted off the field. pic.twitter.com/IrFO20gBbR
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) September 24, 2025
