The top 10 Worst Injuries in MLB History

By Oliver Wiener December 29, 2023 04:51

Major League Baseball (MLB) is a sport that is known for its high level of competition and intense physical demands. With players pushing their bodies to the limit, injuries are an unfortunate part of the game. Throughout MLB history, there have been numerous devastating injuries that have not only ended careers but also left a lasting impact on the players and the sport itself. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 worst injuries in MLB history.

1. Ray Chapman's Death

One of the most tragic incidents in MLB history occurred on August 16, 1920, when Ray Chapman, a shortstop for the Cleveland Indians, was struck in the head by a pitch thrown by Carl Mays of the New York Yankees. Chapman collapsed and died from his injuries a few hours later. This incident led to the introduction of batting helmets in the game to protect players from similar accidents.

2. Tony Conigliaro's Eye Injury

In 1967, Tony Conigliaro, a promising young outfielder for the Boston Red Sox, was hit in the face by a pitch thrown by Jack Hamilton of the California Angels. Conigliaro suffered a fractured cheekbone and a severely damaged left eye. Although he made a remarkable comeback, his vision was never the same, and his career was ultimately cut short.

3. Dave Dravecky's Arm Break

On August 15, 1989, Dave Dravecky, a pitcher for the San Francisco Giants, suffered a horrific injury during a game against the Montreal Expos. While delivering a pitch, Dravecky's left arm snapped, resulting in a compound fracture. This injury marked the end of Dravecky's career and eventually led to the discovery of a cancerous tumor in his arm.

4. Bo Jackson's Hip Injury

Bo Jackson was a multi-talented athlete who played both baseball and football professionally. In 1991, while playing for the Kansas City Royals, Jackson suffered a dislocated hip during a playoff game against the Cincinnati Reds. This injury not only ended his baseball career but also had a significant impact on his football career.

5. Juan Encarnacion's Eye Injury

In 2007, Juan Encarnacion, an outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, suffered a horrific injury during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Encarnacion was struck in the eye by a foul ball, resulting in multiple fractures and permanent vision loss in his left eye. He was forced to retire from professional baseball due to his injuries.

6. Adam Greenberg's Head Injury

Adam Greenberg, a young outfielder for the Chicago Cubs, had his Major League debut cut short in 2005 when he was hit in the head by a pitch from Valerio De Los Santos of the Miami Marlins. Greenberg suffered a concussion and struggled with the long-term effects of the injury. Despite his injury, he made a remarkable comeback in 2012, getting a second chance at bat.

7. Tony Saunders' Arm Break

In 1999, Tony Saunders, a pitcher for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, suffered a career-ending injury during a game against the Texas Rangers. While throwing a pitch, Saunders' left arm snapped, causing a compound fracture. This injury marked the end of Saunders' promising career and left a lasting impact on the young pitcher.

8. Herb Score's Eye Injury

Herb Score, a talented pitcher for the Cleveland Indians, suffered a severe eye injury in 1957. While pitching against the New York Yankees, Score was struck in the face by a line drive hit by Gil McDougald. The injury resulted in a fractured orbital bone and damaged vision in his left eye, significantly impacting his career.

9. Bryce Florie's Eye Injury

In 2000, Bryce Florie, a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, suffered a devastating injury during a game against the New York Yankees. Florie was struck in the face by a line drive hit by Ryan Thompson, resulting in multiple fractures and significant damage to his eye. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries, Florie's vision was permanently impaired, forcing him to retire from professional baseball.

10. Tony Saunders' Arm Break

Injuries are an unfortunate reality in the world of MLB. The top 10 worst injuries in MLB history serve as a reminder of the physical risks that players face every time they step onto the field. These injuries not only ended careers but also left a lasting impact on the players and the sport. Despite the risks, MLB players continue to push themselves to the limit, captivating fans with their skill and dedication to the game.