This is a 2011 photo of of the Atlanta Braves baseball team. This image reflects the Atlanta Braves active roster as of Feb. 21, 2001 when this image was taken. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Doctors were unable to save Salazar’s left eye, Braves general manager Frank Wren told reporters on Wednesday. Salazar, however, is recovering and expects to manage Lynchburg of the Class A Carolina League this season.
He had the eye removed during surgery on Tuesday.
Salazar, 54, was standing against the railing on the top step of the dug out, when Braves catcher, Brian McCann fouled a ball that went in his direction.
Salazar couldn’t avoid the line drive because it was too fast and it him in the face.
The game was stopped for almost 20 minutes so the minor league manager could be airlifted to a local hospital.
“It’s a crazy, crazy, thing that happened,” McCann said, according to the Associated Press.
According to reports, doctor’s weren’t sure if Salazar would survive the accident.
Accidents involving foul balls are always a serious concern. Before games PA announcers warn spectators to always be aware of foul balls, and Major League Baseball now requires all first base and third base coaches to wear helmets on the field. Regular baseball caps are no longer allowed.
