Boston Red Sox pitcher Tanner Houck is set to undergo surgery to repair a facial fracture with plate insertion. The procedure is expected to take place in the coming days and will be performed by Dr. Matthew Leibman at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary.
The injury occurred on April 19th when Houck was hit in the face by a line drive during a game against the Tampa Bay Rays. The ball struck him in the left side of his face, resulting in a fracture of the zygomatic arch. The zygomatic arch is a curved bone located below the eye socket that helps form the cheekbone.
Houck was immediately taken to the hospital for evaluation and treatment. After consulting with specialists, it was determined that surgery was necessary to repair the fracture. The procedure will involve inserting a plate into the bone to stabilize it and allow for proper healing.
The recovery time for this type of surgery is typically 4-6 weeks. It is unclear at this time if Houck will be able to return to pitching during this time frame. The Red Sox have not yet provided an update on his status.
This is not the first time Houck has had to deal with an injury. He missed the entire 2020 season due to a shoulder injury. He was able to make a full recovery from that injury and was expected to be a key part of the Red Sox pitching staff this season.
Houck’s injury is a reminder of the risks associated with playing professional sports. It’s important for athletes to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves from injury. We wish Tanner a speedy recovery and hope he is able to return to the mound soon.
