Orioles Manager Suffers Injuries After Foul Ball Hits Face

Craig Albernaz will not require surgery after taking a line drive to the face during Monday's game.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 12:20am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold colors representing a baseball manager being struck by a foul ball, the impact breaking the scene into sharp, overlapping planes.A fractured, cubist depiction of a baseball manager taking a line drive to the face, highlighting the dangers coaches face during games.Baltimore Today

Orioles manager Craig Albernaz suffered six fractures and a broken jaw after getting hit in the face by a foul ball during Monday's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Albernaz was struck by a ball hit by Jeremiah Jackson in the fifth inning but was able to return to the dugout after being checked out. Despite the injury, the Orioles were able to mount a comeback, with Jackson hitting a grand slam and a solo homer to lead Baltimore to victory.

Why it matters

Injuries to managers and coaches are relatively rare in baseball, but they can have a significant impact on a team's performance and morale. Albernaz's injury highlights the dangers that coaches and staff face during games and the importance of safety protocols to protect them.

The details

In the fifth inning of Monday's game, Orioles manager Craig Albernaz was struck in the face by a foul ball hit by Jeremiah Jackson. The impact caused six fractures and a broken jaw for Albernaz, who initially exited the dugout to receive medical attention. Despite the injury, Albernaz was able to return to the dugout and continue managing the game.

  • The incident occurred in the fifth inning of Monday's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The players

Craig Albernaz

The manager of the Baltimore Orioles who suffered six fractures and a broken jaw after being hit in the face by a foul ball.

Jeremiah Jackson

The Arizona Diamondbacks player whose foul ball struck Orioles manager Craig Albernaz in the face.

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What they’re saying

“We're just thankful Craig is okay and that the injuries aren't more serious. He's a tough guy and we know he'll bounce back from this.”

— Brandon Hyde, Orioles Bench Coach

What’s next

Albernaz will not require surgery for his injuries and is expected to return to managing the team once he has fully recovered.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the risks that coaches and staff face during baseball games and the importance of safety protocols to protect them from potential injuries.