It was a rough Saturday evening on the North Shore for the Pirates. In addition to absorbing a 6-2 loss to the Reds in the third game of a four game series, the club announced mid-way through the contest that outfielder Anthony Alford was diagnosed with a broken elbow, ultimately bringing an end to his season.
The injury occurred in the third inning. Reds catcher Tucker Barnhart smacked a 1-1 pitch from Trevor Williams to deep center field. Alford, known for his ability with both his legs and glove chased the ball during its flight and attempted to leap high enough to rob the homer.
Not only was he unsuccessful, but he injured himself while doing so. Alford collided with the wall in centerfield as the ball sailed over the fence. Almost immediately after Barnhart rounded the bases, the Pittsburgh training staff was heading out to give Alford a look.
He exited the field slowly, showing signs of discomfort. An update on the status of his injury was provided just a few innings later.
"Honestly, it makes me a little sick to my stomach," Derek Shelton said when asked about Alford's injury after the game. "Just because knowing the opportunity that he has right now. Then even more so, knowing the person and the kid. Just to see the pain and anguish in his eyes, it’s difficult. It’s something that we have to move through. But I definitely feel for him."
The Pirates claimed Alford off waivers from the Blue Jays on August 27. In just four games with his new club, Alford went 4-for-12 with a triple, home run, four RBIs and two runs scored.