Padres' Jake Cronenworth Stays in Game After 96 MPH Fastball to the Chin

Cronenworth was hit by a pitch from Angels' Yusei Kikuchi but remained in the game after being checked by trainers.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:24am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a baseball player being hit by a pitch, with the impact broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes.A cubist interpretation of the moment a baseball player is struck by a pitch, highlighting the raw physicality and danger of the sport.San Diego Today

In a terrifying moment during the Padres-Angels game on Saturday night, Padres second baseman Jake Cronenworth was struck in the jaw by a 96 mph fastball from Angels pitcher Yusei Kikuchi. Cronenworth immediately went down in pain, but after being checked by trainers, he decided to remain in the game.

Why it matters

Cronenworth's decision to stay in the game after taking such a hard hit to the face is a testament to his toughness and determination. As a two-time All-Star, his health and well-being are crucial to the Padres' success this season.

The details

With two outs in the top of the fifth inning and a 1-2 count, Kikuchi's fastball caught Cronenworth square in the jaw, causing him to fall to the ground in pain. The broadcast showed multiple replays of the ball hitting Cronenworth, with the impact also striking the catcher, Logan O'Hoppe, in the shoulder. Despite the terrifying nature of the incident, Cronenworth was able to get up and, after being examined by trainers, decided to remain in the game.

  • The incident occurred in the top of the fifth inning on Saturday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Jake Cronenworth

A two-time All-Star second baseman for the San Diego Padres.

Yusei Kikuchi

The starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels who threw the 96 mph fastball that hit Cronenworth in the face.

Logan O'Hoppe

The catcher for the Los Angeles Angels who was also struck by the errant pitch.

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What they’re saying

“Cronenworth is getting checked out after this nasty hit by pitch”

— Carlos

What’s next

The Padres will continue to monitor Cronenworth's condition and provide updates on his status. The game remains tied 0-0 through six innings.

The takeaway

Cronenworth's decision to remain in the game after taking such a hard hit to the face is a testament to his toughness and determination. This incident highlights the inherent risks and dangers that players face in the sport of baseball, and the importance of player safety and proper medical evaluation.