JaCoby Jones hit in face by pitch, disabled list likely

UPDATED:

In the top of the third inning, Tigers centerfielder JaCoby Jones was hit in the face by a 89mph high inside pitch from Twins’ pitcher Justin Haley.

Jones immediately stumbled to the ground and was attended to by Tigers’ trainer Kevin Rand. He was visibly bloodied, but conscious and able to walk off the field on his own. He was removed from the game to receive medical attention.

Andrew Romine replaced Jones in centerfield. We will provide updates on Jones’ condition as they become available.

Manager Brad Ausmus indicated that the Tigers might be without their starting center fielder.

Jones was reported to have a badly split upper lip, but was not missing any teeth. He was taken to a nearby hospital for a CT scan.

Should Jones have to go on the disabled list, the Tigers would then be without four starting players from their lineup, with Miguel Cabrera, Jose Iglesias, and J.D. Martinez already out of action.

The Tigers do not have any more position players on their 40 man roster who could be recalled. They have 24 pitchers, 15 position players (including the three on the disabled list) and one vacancy. Among the outfielders in the minor leagues, Steven Moya and Alex Presley are in Toledo, while Michael Gerber is at double-A Erie. The club might also consider recalling an infielder such as Omar Infante, leaving Andrew Romine for regular outfield duty.

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