Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz confirmed he sustained serious facial injuries after being struck by a line drive off the bat of Jeremiah Jackson during Monday night’s game against the Diamondbacks. Medical evaluation revealed Albernaz suffered a broken jaw and at least seven fractures in his cheekbone area following the dugout incident.

Despite the severity of the trauma, the first-year manager insisted he requires no surgery and expects to be on the bench for Tuesday night’s matchup. Albernaz stated he is physically capable of managing, explaining that his commitment is to the players and the daily schedule. His immediate dietary restrictions involve consuming only baby food for the next six weeks.

Albernaz’s immediate reaction upon being hit was to cover his face, wanting to shield his family and the dugout personnel from seeing the extent of the injury on television. This remarkable display of dedication comes early in his tenure leading the club, cementing a tough reputation.

He emphasized his resolve, claiming he would be present even if his jaw were wired shut, showing a commitment that supersedes personal physical welfare. The team’s medical staff treated him immediately after the ball connected with his face near second base.