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6d ago

Willson Contreras Knocked From Game After 95‑mph Fastball Hits Helmet

The Red Sox’s All‑Star first baseman entered MLB concussion protocol and will be monitored day‑to‑day as the club assesses his symptoms and short‑term availability.

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Jul 31, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Boston Red Sox infielder Willson Contreras (40) and Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Eliezer Alfonzo (64) react after Contreras was hit in the head with a pitch during the third inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Jul 31, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Boston Red Sox infielder Willson Contreras (40) walks to first base with a trainer after being hit in the head with a pitch thrown by Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Cole Irvin (not pictured) during the third inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • In the third inning of the July 31 game at Dodger Stadium, Dodgers reliever Will Klein threw two high 95‑mph fastballs to Willson Contreras, with the second striking Contreras’ helmet and causing him to be removed for evaluation.
  • Contreras ran the bases after the at‑bat but was replaced defensively that half‑inning for precautionary testing and soon entered MLB concussion protocol.
  • Interim manager Chad Tracy said initial tests were encouraging and Contreras was kept out of the next day’s lineup while the team monitored his activity and symptoms on a day‑to‑day basis.
  • Klein was pulled from the outing after the incident; multiple reports note he has shown recent command problems and the pair of high fastballs in the same at‑bat framed the safety concern.
  • Boston won the game 9‑4 and has adjusted its lineup with Nick Sogard starting at first, while the club weighs short‑term roster choices given Contreras’ role as a primary offensive leader this season.