Padres Infielder Hit in Face by 97-mph Fastball

Jake Cronenworth shakes off scary HBP in Padres' win over Angels

Apr. 19, 2026 at 6:06am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the explosive moment a baseball player is struck in the face by a pitch, the player's features dissolving into a blur of motion and impact.A powerful image capturing the intensity and danger of a high-speed pitch striking a player in the face, a sobering reminder of the risks professional athletes face.Anaheim Today

San Diego Padres infielder Jake Cronenworth was hit in the face by a 97-mph fastball from Los Angeles Angels pitcher Yusei Kikuchi during Saturday's game at Angel Stadium. Cronenworth, a 2-time All-Star, walked it off and remained in the game, going 1-for-1 with two walks and a run scored in the Padres' 4-1 victory.

Why it matters

Incidents of players being hit in the face by high-velocity pitches are always concerning, as they can result in serious injuries. However, Cronenworth's ability to shake off the hit and continue contributing to his team's win speaks to his toughness and resilience.

The details

With two outs in the top of the 5th inning and a runner in scoring position, Kikuchi's 1-2 pitch caught Cronenworth square in the jaw. The 96.5-mph fastball was a scary moment, but Cronenworth walked it off and took his base, later scoring a run. Kikuchi managed to strike out the next batter to end the inning.

  • The incident occurred in the top of the 5th inning on April 19, 2026.

The players

Jake Cronenworth

A 2-time MLB All-Star infielder for the San Diego Padres.

Yusei Kikuchi

The starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels who threw the 97-mph fastball that hit Cronenworth in the face.

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What they’re saying

“Scary moment as Jake Cronenworth was hit in the face with a pitch. He walked it off to first base”

— Talkin' Baseball

The takeaway

Cronenworth's ability to shake off the scary HBP and continue contributing to his team's win demonstrates the toughness and resilience of professional athletes, even in the face of potentially serious injuries.