SEATTLE -- The Orioles caught a tough break toward the end of their 3-0 loss to the Mariners on Thursday, when catcher Adley Rutschman was removed from the game after being hit in the left ear with a throw.
With one out in the ninth inning, Rutschman was hit flush in his unprotected ear by a strong toss by Seattle shortstop Colt Emerson, who was trying to complete a double play and fired from inside second base at fairly close range. The ear flap on Rutschman’s batting helmet was on the right side since he was hitting left-handed.
Rutschman appeared to be in pain and exited. He was unavailable for comment after the game, and Baltimore manager Craig Albernaz said the team was in the process of getting an update.
“He’s getting looked at right now,” Albernaz said. “I just took him out just because we’re down three and get a pinch-runner in there and get him checked out. Hopefully we’ll hear more here soon.”