Ryan Lasko, a top prospect for the Athletics, was hospitalized following a severe collision with teammate Devin Taylor while playing in the outfield.
On Tuesday, Lasko, who plays center field at Double-A Midland, collided with Taylor as they both dove for a ball. After the impact, Lasko remained on the ground for around 10 minutes before being carted off and transported to Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Plano.
Currently, Lasko is reported to be in stable condition after undergoing surgery for a fracture in his C6-C7 vertebra. He shared that he doesn’t have any feeling in his lower body right now.
Mark Coetzee, the Athletics Director, mentioned in a statement that the doctors haven’t definitively ruled out the possibility of Lasko regaining feeling in his lower body, which is something to hold onto. He expressed support for Lasko and his family—this is clearly an intense and emotional time for everyone involved, and he’s hopeful they can be there for each other. Ed Sprague, the team’s director of player development, also traveled to Texas, and Lasko’s family is with him. Coetzee added that all of Lasko’s teammates plan to visit him to offer their encouragement and support.
Lasko, 24, was drafted in the second round of the 2023 MLB Draft after his time at Rutgers University. He participated in training camp with the major league team this spring, impressing the coaching staff with his defensive abilities.
