Extreme heat impacted Major League Baseball games over the weekend, causing notable health concerns for players amidst soaring temperatures across the United States. Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz and Seattle Mariners reliever Trent Thornton were both affected during their respective games.
In a tense match against the St. Louis Cardinals, De La Cruz vomited in the outfield during the fourth inning as the temperature soared to 92 degrees Fahrenheit (33 degrees Celsius) at Busch Stadium. After receiving attention from a trainer, De La Cruz chose to continue playing, which proved to be a pivotal decision. Later in the game, he hit a dramatic two-run home run that helped the Reds in the closely contested 6-5 extra-innings defeat.
Meanwhile, at Wrigley Field, Mariners pitcher Trent Thornton faced severe heat exhaustion, beginning to feel ill after pitching 2 1/3 scoreless innings in temperatures that reached 94 degrees Fahrenheit (34 degrees Celsius). He required assistance from medical staff after struggling on the mound and was later given an ice bath for recovery. Mariners manager Dan Wilson expressed relief that Thornton was in better shape after the incident.
In another alarming note during the Cubs game, home plate umpire Chad Whitson left the game due to illness linked to the heat, leading to a brief stoppage in play. A staff member at Wrigley Field also dealt with heat-related issues but was able to leave the field unaided.
As the eastern part of the U.S. braces for what forecasters describe as a potential dangerous heat wave in the coming days, with over 250 daily temperature records expected to be challenged, teams are preparing accordingly. The Cubs have implemented additional safety measures, including bringing in a city bus as a cooling station beside the stadium for the final game of the series, in an effort to protect players, staff, and fans alike.
This situation underscores the importance of safety and wellness in sports, especially in extreme weather conditions. Teams and leagues are adapting and prioritizing the health of players amid these challenges, creating a proactive approach to ensuring everyone can safely participate in the game.