The Los Angeles Dodgers’ first preseason game of the Cactus League took a frightening turn on Thursday when pitcher Bobby Miller was struck in the head by a line drive during the third inning of their matchup against the Chicago Cubs.
A scary incident on the mound featuring Bobby Miller
Bobby Miller, who entered the game at the start of the third inning, had barely begun his stint on the mound when disaster struck. Cubs first baseman Michael Busch sent a scorching line drive directly at Miller, clocking in at 105.5 miles per hour. The fast-moving ball hit Miller in the head, knocking his cap off and sending him crashing to the ground.
The game was temporarily halted as medical staff rushed to Miller’s side. Despite the alarming impact, he was able to walk off the field under his own power, though a visible swelling, resembling a goose egg, began to form on his right temple.
The Chicago Cubs take advantage
During the delay, Vidal Brujan, who was stationed at second base, crossed home plate off Busch’s single, pushing the Chicago Cubs' lead to 3-1. The Chicago Cubs didn’t stop there, adding five more runs in the third inning, taking a commanding 6-3 lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Bobby Miller's 2024 struggles and future uncertainty
Miller, who made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers in May 2023, had a promising start to his career but endured significant struggles in 2024. Despite flashes of brilliance, he finished the season with an 8.52 ERA, a performance that led to multiple minor league assignments throughout the year.
Heading into spring training, Bobby Miller’s future with the Los Angeles Dodgers was uncertain, with the team boasting a stacked roster. This injury could further complicate his standing on the team, especially if his recovery impacts his readiness for the upcoming season.
As the Los Angeles Dodgers wait for more information on Bobby Miller's injury, fans and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on the status of the young pitcher, whose promising debut season was marred by inconsistent performances in 2024.
