In a shocking incident during a game against the Baltimore Orioles, Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Hunter Bigge was struck in the face by a foul ball hit by Adley Rutschman. The ball, which traveled at 105 mph, caused immediate concern as Bigge was carted off the field on a stretcher but thankfully remained conscious and alert throughout the ordeal. He was taken to a nearby hospital for precautionary tests. The game was halted for eight minutes while emergency personnel attended to him, and Bigge received a standing ovation from the crowd at Steinbrenner Field.

Bigge, who is currently on the injured list with a lat strain, has proven to be a valuable asset for the Rays with a solid 2.40 ERA in 13 relief appearances this season. He had previously made his major league debut with the Chicago Cubs before being traded to Tampa Bay last July along with Christopher Morel, showcasing his potential as a reliable pitcher. Despite the incident, the game resumed, with the Orioles ultimately securing a 4-1 victory.