CLEVELAND, OH – A crucial divisional matchup between the Cleveland Guardians and Detroit Tigers was overshadowed by a terrifying incident Tuesday night, as Guardians designated hitter David Fry was struck in the face by a 99 mph fastball and subsequently hospitalized.

The scary moment occurred in the bottom of the sixth inning at Progressive Field. With the game tied and runners on, Fry squared up to bunt against Tigers’ ace Tarik Skubal. The high-velocity pitch appeared to get away from Skubal, running inside and striking Fry directly in the facial area.

Fry immediately collapsed to the ground, clutching his face as players and fans looked on in stunned silence. A visibly shaken Skubal threw down his glove and cap in distress as Guardians manager Stephen Vogt and medical trainers rushed to home plate.

After several tense minutes on the ground, Fry, who remained conscious, was helped to his feet and gave a thumbs-up to the crowd as he was carted off the field. The Guardians later announced that Fry was transported to the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus for testing and observation and would be held overnight.

The game, a pivotal contest with both teams tied for first place in the AL Central, took a backseat to the concern for Fry’s well-being.

“It was straight to the face… we’re all thinking about David and his family right now,” a somber Vogt told reporters after the game. “It was a really scary moment.”

Skubal, the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, also expressed his deep concern. “Things are bigger than the game, and the health of him is more important than a baseball game,” he said. “I’ve already reached out to him… I just want to make sure he’s alright.”

Despite the emotional shock, the Guardians rallied in the same inning to score three runs, ultimately winning the game 5-2 to take sole possession of first place. However, the victory was bittersweet, with the team’s thoughts focused on the health and recovery of their teammate. The Guardians are expected to provide an update on Fry’s condition on Wednesday.