- David Fry has been released from the hospital with facial fractures but no need for surgery.
- He is expected to miss 6-8 weeks, ending his 2025 season.
- The pitcher, Tarik Skubal, was visibly upset and reached out to Fry after the game.
- The Guardians won the game and moved into a tie for first place in their division.
A frightening moment silenced the ballpark during a crucial Cleveland Guardians game on September 23, 2025.
Designated hitter David Fry was struck in the face by a 99 mph fastball, an incident that shifted focus from the playoff race to the player’s well-being and left teammates and opponents alike visibly shaken.

Current Status of David Fry’s Health and Recovery
David Fry has been discharged from the Cleveland Clinic and is now recovering at home. After a night in the hospital for observation and testing, the Guardians announced he sustained a broken nose and multiple facial fractures.
The excellent news is that Fry is expected to make a full recovery and will not require surgery. The team estimates his recovery timeline at six to eight weeks, meaning he will be unavailable for the remainder of the regular season and the entire postseason.
How the Terrifying Incident Unfolded
The injury occurred in the sixth inning of a key game against the Detroit Tigers. Fry squared around to bunt a 2-1 pitch from ace Tarik Skubal. The 99.1 mph fastball rode in on him, missing the bat entirely and striking him directly in the nose and mouth area.
Fry collapsed immediately in the batter’s box, clutching his bloodied face as team medical staff and a horrified Skubal rushed to his aid.
Scary moment as David Fry was hit in the face while squaring up to bunt a 99mph Fastball. @StoolBaseball
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) September 24, 2025
Team and Opponent Reactions to the Injury
The incident had a profound impact on everyone present. Guardians manager Stephen Vogt described it as a “really scary moment,” confirming Fry remained conscious the whole time. An emotionally shaken Skubal immediately reached out to Fry, stating, “there’s things that are bigger than the game”.
Teammate Steven Kwan called Fry a “selfless” player and expressed relief that Fry was able to show some humor as he was carted off the field.
Impact on the Game and Playoff Implications
Following the delay, the game took a bizarre turn. Skubal, clearly rattled, struggled with his control. He committed a balk, threw a wild pitch, and made a throwing error, all in the same inning.
The Guardians capitalized, scoring three runs without hitting a single ball out of the infield to secure a 5-2 victory. This win allowed Cleveland to catch Detroit for the American League Central division lead.
Fry’s Recent Injury History and Role on the Team
This injury is a separate setback for Fry, who began the 2025 season on the injured list after undergoing offseason elbow surgery. The 2024 All-Star had been limited to designated hitter duties this year.
Despite offensive struggles this season, Fry has been a valuable and energetic presence for the Guardians.
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Last Updated on September 25, 2025 by 247 News Around The World