MLB News: What happened to Jonathan India after being hit by a pitch from Guardians’ Emmanuel Clase?

Jonathan India suffered a painful hit to the face during the game between the Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Guardians, where Emmanuel Clase unfortunately lost control of his throw, and the ball struck the batter directly in the face at the plate.

Following the incident, it was revealed that India was hit near the ear zone of his helmet and had to leave the game, with the Guardians leading 6-2 over the Royals. India quickly walked off the home plate and was escorted directly to the locker room, likely to receive medical attention.

The ball that hit India was traveling at 99 MPH—a typical fastball from Clase, who is known for his aggressive approach on the mound. Clase appeared visibly concerned after the incident, standing off the mound and watching as India was escorted off the field.

India had recently joined the Royals officially and was welcomed by his teammates with a celebratory soda shower. Previously, he spent the first four years of his pro MLB career in Cincinnati and arrived in Kansas hoping to contribute at the left field position.

It’s not the first time Clase has hit a batter with a pitch

Notably, last season, Clase also struck another player in the head with a 101 MPH fastball. The incident occurred on June 12 during a game between the Guardians and the Reds. The victim at that time was Blake Dunn, who fortunately recovered and lived to tell the tale of the encounter with Clase.

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Are pitchers fined for hitting batters with pitches?

No, they usually aren’t fined, no matter how severe the hit. However, if the umpire determines that the pitcher intentionally threw the pitch to hit the batter, the pitcher could be ejected from the game and may face further consequences such as a multi-game suspension or a fine. Additionally, it’s important to note that when a batter is hit by a pitch, the player is awarded first base.