Pirates' Young Star Being Examined for Concussion

One of the most exciting young players in baseball, shortstop Oneil Cruz has already been doing Oneil Cruz things in the season's opening few games, hitting the long ball, stealing bases and firing howitzers over to first. But his aggressive baserunning left him dazed and confused in today's game with the Boston Red Sox. 

Oneil Cruz really just did a face-first Brexit tackle. pic.twitter.com/MTYfXEFxxv

— Alex Best -v|v- 🇺🇦 (@Thetrainiac32) April 5, 2023

Trying to slide head-first into third base, he took a hard shin to the face from Red Sox 3B Rafael Devers. He was seemingly having a problem with his eye.

Oneil Cruz is out. Team will check him for a concussion during tomorrow’s off-day, but it’s nothing serious.

— Pittsburgh Pirates Rant Podcast (@BrianCornell16) April 5, 2023

He actually stayed in the game, and came home on a base hit, but left the game the following half-inning and was examined for a facial injury. He will also be checked for a concussion. For now, it's not being considered anything serious. 

Cruz finished the game 1-for-4 with a run. He's now hitting .261 with a .768 OPS. 

Photo: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports