It happened in the top of the second inning with one out after Baddoo reached first base on a walk. Baddoo tried to steal on an 0-1 pitch to DH Miguel Cabrera, who took the 95 mph fastball high and outside for a ball. Catcher Mike Zunino's throw to second tailed towards Baddoo as he was in the middle of his slide. The ball hit Baddoo square in the groin and bounced into the glove of second baseman Andres Gimenez, who made enough contact with Baddoo before he reached the bag to get credit for the out.
That has to be a million-to-one shot. Zunino couldn't hit that target again if he tried. We are guessing that Baddoo was wearing a cup, as he was able to stay in the game, but that still hurts.We don't know what to say. Just watch. pic.twitter.com/rOUxKpIA4F
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) May 8, 2023
We have seen baseball players hit in the groin by baseballs before, including Hall of Famers, so accidents can happen to anyone no matter who you are. The main thing for baseball players of all ages to remember is to always wear a cup. You have to be prepared for anything.
Baddoo finished the game 0-for-4 with that walk, but the Tigers beat the Guardians 6-2.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
