Oakland Athletics prospect Ryan Lasko has regained sensation in his legs following a serious spinal injury sustained in an outfield collision four weeks ago. Lasko shared the positive update on social media Monday, stating he now has feeling from his feet up to his knees and is experiencing involuntary leg movements.
Lasko also reported improvements in his hand function, noting about 75% usage in his left hand and 50% in his right. He expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, which he says motivates his daily recovery efforts. "I’m very happy with my progress and once again, so very thankful for all the love and support. It has continued to help me get up everyday and work my hardest," Lasko posted.
The injury occurred during a game in Texas when Lasko collided with minor league teammate Devin Taylor while both players were pursuing a fly ball. Lasko remained motionless on the field for approximately 10 minutes after the incident. He underwent surgery on June 30 to address a fractured C6-C7 vertebra.
An earlier update from Lasko, shared on Instagram two weeks prior to his most recent post, conveyed his determination to return to the sport. "I’d like to thank everyone for the well wishes & prayers," he wrote. "I truly feel so loved and appreciated by everyone that has reached out. I am doing well and on the road to recovery. This is going to be a lengthy process but I hope to be able to get back to doing what I love."
Athletics manager Mark Kotsay recently shared a photo of Lasko in a neck brace, giving a peace sign, and indicated that Lasko was in good spirits with his family in New Jersey. The team has shown solidarity with Lasko, producing "22 Strong" t-shirts featuring his name and number.
Lasko, 24, was drafted by the Athletics in the second round of the 2023 amateur draft. This season, he batted .209 with six home runs and 34 RBIs in 70 games for Double-A Midland. He also appeared in 13 games for Triple-A Las Vegas and 21 games in the Arizona Fall League.