Oakland Athletics All-Star closer Mason Miller recently suffered an injury to his left pinky finger during a moment of frustration after a game against Houston. The 25-year-old pitcher, known for his impressive fastball, broke his finger when he hit a table in frustration after being reminded about postgame lifting.
Initially, reports stated that Miller injured his hand while preparing for an exercise, but manager Mark Kotsay clarified that the injury occurred as a result of hitting the table out of emotion. Despite the setback, Miller’s non-pitching hand is now in a cast, allowing him to continue throwing. He is scheduled to have a bullpen session next week.
Miller has been a standout player this season, with an impressive record of 15 saves and a 2.21 ERA. He leads all MLB relievers in strikeouts and boasts an average fastball velocity of 100.9 mph. His exceptional performance even earned him a spot in the All-Star Game, where he made history with the fastest pitch recorded since 2008.
In Miller’s absence, the Athletics will adopt a closer by committee approach, with players like Lucas Erceg, Tyler Ferguson, and Austin Adams stepping up to fill the role. Ross Stripling has been activated to take Miller’s roster spot after recovering from an elbow injury.
Despite the setback, the Athletics remain optimistic about Miller’s recovery and are confident in their ability to adapt to the situation. As they navigate this change in their lineup, fans can expect to see a collaborative effort from the team’s pitchers in closing out games.
This incident serves as a reminder of the emotional toll that professional athletes can face in high-pressure situations. It highlights the importance of mental resilience and the challenges that come with balancing physical and emotional demands in a competitive environment. As Miller works towards recovery, his teammates and fans alike are hopeful for his swift return to the field.