Alex Bregman Hospitalized After Foul Ball to Face

Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman was hit in the face by a foul ball during the fourth inning of Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Reds, leading to his immediate removal from the game and transport to a local hospital.

The incident occurred when teammate Michael Busch swung at a pitch, sending a foul ball in Bregman's direction as he stood in the grass near the on-deck circle. The ball struck Bregman on his left cheekbone, causing a cut and significant swelling around his eye.

Bregman was later seen posting to his Instagram Story from what appeared to be a hospital, showing bruising and his nose packed to stop bleeding. He shared a message for fans, stating, "Thanks for all the messages yall. I’ll be back."

Cubs manager Craig Counsell confirmed the injury and expressed concern for his player. "He got hit in the face, so you're worried about general well-being first," Counsell said, according to the Chicago Tribune. "It's just an unfortunate accident, terrible accident. Hoping and praying he's OK."

Counsell added that Bregman was scheduled to travel back to Chicago with the team. The incident comes at a critical point for the Cubs, who are currently leading the NL wild card standings with six games remaining in the regular season. Counsell emphasized that the team's immediate priority is Bregman's health, stating, "If we get a good report, then we'll move to the next step. I want to get a good report first."

The Cubs went on to win the game against the Reds with a score of 9-1.