ARLINGTON, Texas — July 26, 2025 — What could have been a devastating moment for the surging Texas Rangers turned into a collective sigh of relief at Globe Life Field on Saturday night, after a harrowing scene in the third inning involving one of the club’s most vital players.
During a tense showdown against the Atlanta Braves, the Rangers found themselves tied 2-2 in the third inning when a chilling moment briefly silenced the ballpark. With a runner on first and one of the Rangers’ leaders at the plate, Atlanta’s starting pitcher, Grant Holmes, unleashed a 95 mph fastball that got away from him—sailing high and tight—ultimately striking the batter squarely in the helmet.
The crowd immediately fell quiet as the veteran dropped to the ground, clutching his head. Team trainer Matt Lucero sprinted out of the dugout, joined quickly by manager Bruce Bochy and third base coach Tony Beasley. For several agonizing minutes, players and fans alike watched as the infielder remained on the dirt near home plate, being evaluated by medical staff.
Replays of the pitch showed that the ball appeared to clip the protective flap on the left side of the helmet first, which likely absorbed much of the pitch’s velocity. It then deflected and made contact with his left cheekbone—prompting further concern from the dugout and stands. Cameras later caught the player gently rubbing his cheek, a sign that the impact, while serious, might not have caused significant harm.
To the amazement of many, he slowly rose to his feet, collected his helmet, and, accompanied by Lucero and Bochy, made his way down to first base—electing to stay in the game. Moments later, he advanced to second base on a wild pitch and would eventually score on a clutch single from Adolis García, helping the Rangers regain control of the game.
But the real victory may have been simply seeing him back on his feet.
Following the inning, he returned to the field and resumed his position at second base as if nothing had happened—an impressive show of toughness that didn’t go unnoticed by teammates or fans.
The Rangers have been riding a wave of momentum lately, and this player has been a central force behind their resurgence. That’s what made the incident all the more terrifying in real time. Fortunately, early signs suggest he escaped serious injury, and his continued presence in the game added a jolt of energy to a team chasing a postseason spot.
The organization is expected to monitor him closely for signs of a concussion or any delayed symptoms in the coming days. But for now, all signs point to a fortunate outcome after a moment that could have changed the course of the Rangers’ season.
