Blue Jays’ Sanchez exits after fan incident at Camden Yards

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Jesus Sanchez was forced to leave the contest against the Baltimore Orioles on 31 May 2026 after being struck in the wrist by a baseball thrown from the stands at Camden Yards. The incident occurred during the bottom of the sixth inning while the ball was not in play, prompting immediate medical attention on the field before Sanchez was replaced by Yohendrick Pinango.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider provided context for the unusual occurrence, stating that the ball was thrown by a young fan during a "playful" interaction. Schneider identified the spectator as a 12-year-old child who had been engaging with Sanchez. According to Schneider, the outfielder had motioned to the child in a manner that the fan interpreted as an invitation to play catch.

Sanchez addressed the situation through an interpreter, confirming that the event was a "misunderstanding." He clarified that he did not intend to engage in a game of catch but acknowledged that his gesture led the child to believe otherwise. The outfielder noted that he simply looked at the fan, which resulted in the unintended throw.

Postgame medical scans confirmed that there was no serious injury to Sanchez’s wrist. The team reported a right wrist contusion, but precautionary X-rays were negative. Despite the lack of a severe injury, the player was removed from the game due to the pain sustained from the impact.

The Toronto Blue Jays, who were playing their home series against the Orioles, saw their starting right fielder exit early due to the circumstances. The incident concluded with Sanchez receiving care from team medical personnel before Pinango took his place in the lineup.