It was almost a surprise to see Dansby Swanson back in the lineup Tuesday evening after his … injury … on Monday night. But that didn’t stop a teammate from insuring his safety.
The Atlanta Braves have had a lot of things to cringe about during 2016. But you could indeed say that Dansby Swanson‘s injury on Monday was a microcosm of this mostly-forgettable season.
If you missed it, it was one of those bizarre things that happens occasionally. It ranks down there with Craig Kimbrel blowing out a knee while shagging fly balls during batting practice for the Red Sox, or Tom Glavine breaking a rib while throwing up.
Fortunately this wasn’t that serious. But it lead to some fun thereafter.
Let’s Go to the Video
First… the injury. Men may wish to turn away. Women – please don’t laugh out loud in our presence.
Huddy suspects this errant throw by Flowers is why Beckham has replaced Dansby at SS in the 5th. pic.twitter.com/UiIR4uzo1i
— Bally Sports: Braves (@BravesOnBally) September 13, 2016
In all seriousness (for a moment), this throw must have absolutely rocked Swanson. Coach Brian Snitker said he had to throw up in the clubhouse. However…
#Braves Swanson saw doctor and was cleared to play, no damage down there.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) September 13, 2016
I don’t even want to speculate on what THAT examination consisted of.
However, Swanson indeed has learned his lesson…
#Braves Swanson will "take protective measures" (i.e., wear a cup) from now on when he's on field. Wasn't wearing one last night.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) September 13, 2016
Well… let’s say he probably learned his lesson:
Actually, the quote from #Braves Dansby Swanson was, "I'll be properly equipped from now on."
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) September 13, 2016
Regardless, certain members of his team are certainly looking out for him. Last night, after Matt Wisler was pulled out of the game, Dansby started to wander over to his customary chatting position while Chaz Roe was warming up.
But Adonis Garcia would have none of that. He took matters into his own hands – so to speak – to insure the protection of the Braves’ prized prospect. He walled off the space between the mound and Swanson, even having Dansby turn around for added safety.
https://twitter.com/FOXSportsSE/status/775858311799320576
As Tim Hudson also pointed out on the TV broadcast when Swanson turned around, “at least his glove is in the right place”.
But all is well… and Swanson did get a hit during his first AB back from … well, a place that few want to go to. His voice hasn’t changed, either.