Yankees pitcher Bryan Mitchell struck in face by line drive, leaves game

Twins infielder Eduardo Nunez – former Yankee to boot – smashed a line drive right in the direction of Yankees staring pitcher Bryan Mitchell. But the bottom line each season has been disappointingly consistent, with the high point, as it were, being his 4.78 ERA in 2013.

The injury occurred in the second inning and Mitchell was taken to a hospital. He was able to walk off the field under his own power, holding a towel to his face to absorb the blood. This isn’t the first-time he’s given fans hope that his poor form is behind him. “Luckily, what could’ve happened didn’t”, New York catcher Brian McCannsaid.

The Yankees (64-52) begin a three-game series with the Twins (59-58) at Yankee Stadium on Monday night.

Mitchell went into the game with a record of 0-1 and an earned-run average of 3.72. He is considered the Yankees’ second-best pitching prospect, behind right-hander Luis Severino. “I get goosebumps talking about it”, Twins manager Paul Molitor said.

Mitchell, who is considered one of the top prospects in the Yankees’ system, was replaced in the game by Caleb Cotham. However, such a cap would not have aided Mitchell on Monday.