Baltimore Orioles catcher James McCann (27) walks to first base after being hit in the face with a pitch during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Reggie Hildred-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Orioles' James McCann shows his toughness vs. Blue Jays

By David Hill | Last updated Jul 29, 2024 5:27 PM ET

No one will ever question Baltimore Orioles catcher James McCann's toughness again.

McCann was at the plate with the bases loaded and a 2-2 count when he was hit in the face by a 95 mph fastball from Blue Jays pitcher Yariel Rodriguez. He dropped to the ground immediately, with trainers attempting to stop a nosebleed from what may be a broken nose. McCann was literally spitting blood as he was being worked on, with the expectation that he would come out of the game.

Instead, McCann stayed in. There was a delay as he changed out of his bloodied jersey, but McCann took his place at first after the hit-by-pitch. He received a standing ovation as he returned behind the plate for the top of the second, showing incredible toughness and leadership.

James McCann is a legend for this. pic.twitter.com/C6FBFVqF9a
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) July 29, 2024

Rodriguez was wild during his time on the mound, issuing four walks and throwing just 21 of his 43 pitches for strikes. He was taken out of the game after hitting McCann, recording just two outs while allowing four runs in his disastrous outing.

McCann's toughness certainly attracted attention. Injured teammate Tyler Wells posted that while he would "go to war" for McCann, it would be useless given his toughness. McCann has been compared to a hockey player for staying in the game. He showed his value to the Orioles in that moment as well; on a team filled with young stars, he showed why veteran leadership and toughness are valuable.

McCann staying in the game also saved the Orioles from a possible disaster. The Orioles and Blue Jays are playing a double-header and Adley Rutschman is the only other catcher on the roster. He has saved the Orioles from either needing to use the young backstop for at least 17 innings or turning to their emergency catcher. McCann's toughness not only made a difference on Monday but will be remembered by the younger players for years to come.

David Hill

Based in the mountains of Vermont, Dave has over a decade of experience writing about all things baseball. Just don't ask his thoughts on the universal DH.

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