
Alex Bregman was taken to a local hospital for further evaluation after being hit in the face by a foul ball during the Chicago Cubs’ 9-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday.
Bregman was standing in the on-deck circle with two outs in the fourth inning when teammate Michael Busch fouled a pitch toward him. The ball struck Bregman in the face, forcing him to leave the game.
Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reported the initial update on X.
Update on Alex Bregman from Cubs manager Craig Counsell: “It’s the left cheekbone, essentially, under the eye. I don’t know anything more than that right now. He had a cut under his eye. He was bleeding from his nose a little bit. He’s pretty swollen.”
— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) September 20, 2026
Cubs manager Craig Counsell provided an update after the game, saying Bregman had a cut under his eye, some nosebleeding and significant swelling. Bregman underwent X-rays and a CT scan at a local hospital.
The initial testing did not prevent Bregman from traveling back to Chicago with the team Sunday night. He also posted a message on Instagram thanking fans for their concern and saying he would be back.
Bregman went 1-for-1 with a walk, an RBI and a run scored before the injury. Matt Shaw replaced him at third base for the remainder of the game.
The injury came during a dominant afternoon for Chicago. Pete Crow-Armstrong hit his 45th home run of the season, while Seiya Suzuki added his 25th homer in the eighth inning.
David Peterson also delivered seven strong innings, allowing three hits and one earned run while striking out seven to earn his ninth win.
Bregman has been an important part of the Cubs’ lineup this season, hitting 26 home runs with 89 RBI. His status for the team’s upcoming games will depend on the results of his evaluation and how he feels after returning to Chicago.
The Cubs improved to 87-69 with Sunday’s victory and remain in the National League Wild Card race. For now, the focus will be on Bregman’s recovery after a frightening moment at Great American Ball Park.
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