Atlanta Braves outfielder Jason Heyward was hit in the face by a pitch during a game against the New York Mets earlier today and rushed to a local hospital for x-rays.
Heyward was hit in the right jaw by a 90 mph fastball thrown by Mets left-hander Jonathon Niese in a sixth-inning at bat. The impact made a loud noise, and the crowd groaned as Heyward crumpled to the ground.
The 24-year-old left-handed slugger stayed down, flat on his back for an estimated three minutes before getting helped to his feet. Heyward gingerly walked off the field under his own power, escorted by a trainer, and was replaced in the lineup by Jordan Schafer.
Visibly shaken and concerned, Niese tapped himself with his glove as Heyward walked off the field and Heyward appeared to acknowledge him. An inning later, the Mets announced that Heyward was examined by their doctors before he was taken to the hospital for further examination.
On a tear at the plate since moving into the leadoff spot last month, Heyward began the day batting .254 with 13 homers and 37 RBIs. Atlanta entered with a 15-game lead in the NL East, largely led by the “Soul Patrol” outfield of Heyward, and brothers Justin and B.J. Upton.
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