Detroit Tigers’ Pitcher, Matt Manning, Suffers Season-Ending Foot Fracture
NEW YORK — Detroit Tigers’ pitcher Matt Manning’s 2023 season has come to an unfortunate end after suffering a foot fracture during a game against the New York Yankees on Tuesday. Manning was hit on the same foot, only a little higher up, by a comebacker off the bat of Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton.
The incident occurred in the first inning of Manning’s second consecutive start against the Bronx Bombers. Stanton’s rocket had an exit velocity of 119.5 mph, per Statcast, and connected directly with Manning’s foot and then his backside before the pitcher caught it and threw to first base for the out. Despite the play, it was clear that Manning’s night was over as he hobbled off the field with the assistance of the Tigers’ medical staff.
X-rays revealed another fracture, dashing any hopes of Manning returning to the mound this season. Tigers’ manager A.J. Hinch expressed sympathy for Manning, acknowledging the hard work the pitcher had put in to get back on track before this setback.
Stanton’s comebacker had the second-hardest exit velocity of any batted ball in the big leagues this season, highlighting the unfortunate luck that Manning faced. The Tigers were forced to once again rely on their bullpen after Manning’s departure, with reliever Beau Brieske taking over in the second inning. Brieske ended up taking the loss after allowing three runs in 1 2/3 innings.
This injury adds to a series of setbacks that Manning has faced in his young career. Since making his Major League debut in June 2021, the pitcher has not completed a full season. He dealt with right shoulder inflammation and a right forearm strain last year and has made only 15 starts this season.
Despite the setbacks, Manning pitched well whenever he was on the field. His recent performances were particularly impressive, as he allowed only one earned run over his past four starts and had a streak of 17 1/3 consecutive scoreless innings entering Wednesday’s game.
Manning remains optimistic and focused on staying healthy for a full season. He believes that if he can remain on the field, he will continue to perform well and contribute to the Tigers’ success.