TORONTO -- Todd Frazier had a conversation with the father of the young girl who was struck by a foul ball during the Yankees' 11-3 win over the Twins on Wednesday afternoon at Yankee Stadium, and the New York third baseman was encouraged to hear that she "is doing OK."
Frazier was shaken after connecting with the line drive against left-hander Nik Turley that sliced into the seats beyond third base. Play halted for four minutes as Frazier crouched outside the batter's box, saying a silent prayer while medical personnel provided assistance and transported the fan from the seating area.
"He says she's doing good. He's a real nice guy," Frazier said. "He told me not to stress over it: 'We understand how upset you were. It's nobody's fault. It's just one of those freak accidents.' He said the family is just happy that she's OK. That's the bottom line. I think they are doing more tests in a couple days and then hopefully she can get out of there."
Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the incident -- and the issue of fan safety -- on Thursday.
"The events at yesterday's game involving a young girl were extremely upsetting for everyone in our game," the Commissioner said. "Over the past few seasons, MLB has worked with our clubs to expand the amount of netting in our ballparks. In light of yesterday's event, we will redouble our efforts on this important issue."
The Yankees also weighed in on the matter Thursday: "Our thoughts and prayers continue to be centered around our young fan and her family. We remain in direct contact with her family and the hospital, and we will provide any and all assistance that may be necessary."
Frazier plans on remaining in close contact with the family.
"I'm probably going to call him every day to see how she's doing, and eventually I definitely want to meet up with them," Frazier said. "He was happy about that for sure. He knows we're playing in Toronto. He wishes me good luck and keep doing what I've been doing. He's a Yankees fan and she is, too. It was just an unfortunate event that you wish never happened. He's a very nice guy, and he says she's doing a lot better."