Another day, another injury scare for the Atlanta Braves, who seemingly can't catch a break. This time, it was Whit Merrifield who had to leave the game after an errant fastball nailed him in the back of his head, completely missing his helmet.
The 35-year-old infielder was able to walk off without any assistance and make his feelings known to Colorado Rockies' pitcher, Jeff Criswell. However, the Braves took no chances and removed him immediately, with Luke Williams pinch-running and taking over at second base.
Whit Merrifield was removed from tonight's game after being hit by this pitch in the back of the head. pic.twitter.com/bEmv1ngplD
— Bally Sports South (@BallySportsSO) September 4, 2024
Braves News: Injury curse continues to follow Atlanta after terrifying hit by pitch forces Whit Merrifield from the game
The Braves entire season has been marred by injuries, ever since Sean Murphy left opening day with an oblique injury. Since then, it's felt like a neverending snowball of serious injury after serious injury.
Whit Merrifield joined the club after the injury to Ozzie Albies in July, and then immediately missed a week after he suffered a freak injury on his first day with the team.
Good news on Whit Merrifield after his injury scare while taking grounders before the game.@ashahahmadi has the latest ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/LbS6fWOKGA
— Bally Sports South (@BallySportsSO) July 23, 2024
Once his finger healed, however, Merrifield has provided the Braves with stability at second base in the absence of their longest-tenured player.
Since taking the reigns of second base, Merrifield has slashed .243/.352/.346 (100 wRC+) while also providing solid defense and great base running.
While walking off on his own is a great sign, the Braves likely want to be cautious with head injuries, especially since it appeared Jeff Criswell's wild fastball completely missed his helmet and hit him flush in the head.
If the Braves want to play it super safely, MLB does have a 7-day concussion IL that they could place Merrifield on. However, Nacho Alvarez Jr. is the team's only available infielder on the 40-man roster. If the Braves need another infielder, they might be pressed to turn to the rookie.
Hopefully, Merrifield's removal is nothing more than a precautionary move, and the second baseman can avoid the injury bug curse that has befallen so many Braves this season.