Miami Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton shared a graphic glimpse of his injured face and an update on his recovery thus far on Tuesday.
The Aftermath...Making huge progress!! Want to thank everyone who has played a part in my recovery… http://t.co/xlQfS2sVF8 — Giancarlo Stanton (@Giancarlo818) September 16, 2014
Part of the injury involved facial fractures after an 88 MPH fastball smashed into Stanton's face last Thursday. The MVP candidate was down on the ground for about ten minutes as numerous medical professionals worked on him.
After being carted off the field, Stanton was taken to a local hospital where the facial fractures were discovered along with a deep laceration. As can be seen in the picture provided by Stanton, he was bloodied badly by the incident.
Stanton is still hoping to return this season but it remains to be seen if he will be cleared by team doctors. The improvement in less than a week is noticeable but the fractures in his face could still take several weeks to heal on their own. Surgery was not necessary as the fractures were non-displaced.
With Stanton out of the lineup, the Marlins were unable to pick up a win until Sunday and have now won two straight. The slugger's absence has been noticeable however as Miami has had to battle back and spread out singles for the most part. There has been a precipitous power drop since Thursday's game.
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The Marlins have turned to several new right fielders in place of Stanton with Garrett Jones, Ed Lucas and Jordany Valdespin all seeing time there.
If Stanton does not return this year, it is likely he has more days ahead of him in Miami anyway. Under team control for two more seasons, the Marlins are expected to retain his services in 2015 via arbitration or a contract extension.
