Orioles Manager Suffers Facial Fractures, Broken Jaw From Line Drive

Craig Albernaz says he doesn't need surgery but will have to eat soft foods for 6 weeks.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:44pm

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Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz suffered seven facial fractures and a broken jaw after being struck by a line drive during Monday's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Albernaz was in the dugout when he took a foul ball to the face off the bat of Jeremiah Jackson, who then hit a grand slam to help the Orioles rally for a 9-7 win.

Why it matters

Albernaz's injury highlights the inherent dangers that baseball managers and coaches face when standing in the dugout during games. While protective netting has become more common, line drives can still pose a serious threat, especially for those not directly participating in the action on the field.

The details

Albernaz said he doesn't need surgery or to have his jaw wired shut, but he will have to eat soft foods for six weeks as he recovers. He was initially hesitant to have his family see the incident on TV, so he covered his face and went into the tunnel. Albernaz said the only scary part was when he removed his hand and saw the blood, not knowing where it was coming from.

  • The incident occurred in the fifth inning of Monday's game between the Orioles and Diamondbacks.
  • Albernaz was introduced as the Orioles manager in October 2025.

The players

Craig Albernaz

The first-year manager of the Baltimore Orioles who suffered seven facial fractures and a broken jaw after being struck by a line drive in the dugout.

Jeremiah Jackson

The Arizona Diamondbacks player whose foul ball hit Albernaz in the face, but who then hit a grand slam to help the Orioles rally for a win.

Chris Bassitt

The Orioles pitcher who informed Albernaz about the grand slam while he was being treated in the tunnel.

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What they’re saying

“I feel good, considering everything. The medical team did a great job. They took care of me. The ball hit me pretty flush in the cheek.”

— Craig Albernaz, Orioles Manager

“The only part that was a little bit scary was when I took my hand off my face, I saw the blood on my hand, and I had no idea where the blood was coming from.”

— Craig Albernaz, Orioles Manager

What’s next

Albernaz will have to undergo further medical evaluation and treatment over the next several weeks as he recovers from his facial injuries. The Orioles will also need to determine how to manage the team in his absence during the remainder of the season.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks that baseball managers and coaches face when working in close proximity to the action on the field. While safety measures have improved, the game still carries inherent dangers, and Albernaz's injury highlights the need for continued vigilance and protection for those in the dugout.