Tregedy occurred in the eighth inning of the game at CitiField on Wednesday, May 6th. Trying to make a diving catch at the wall to save the game, New York outfielder Fernando Martinez dove head first right into the left field wall. Play was instantly called dead as Martinez lay unconscious on the field for several minutes. Both teams wished for the best. Mets medical staff were quick to provide a neckbrace and stretcher for Martinez, and he did eventually gain consciousness on the field. The hope was that it was just the initial shock that caused the unconsciousness but when Martinez woke up he did not have any feeling from the waist down.
After further testing, worst fears were validated, Martinez had broken vertebra in two sections of his back. While with surgery and a lot of physical therapy it is likely he would regain the ability to walk, it is unlikely he will ever return to the baseball field.
"This team has lost a lot of it's veterans over the past few years, and Fernando was looked at as a leader for many of the young players. I speak for all the players on this team when I say that we wish Fernando a full recovery." said teammate Aroldis Chapman.
At a press conference, the New York Mets dedicated the rest of the season to Fernando Martinez. "Fernando was a great baseball player and he dedicated many years of his life to play baseball as a Met. The New York Mets will not forget this service. The entire organization would rather you be playing with us but we definitely wish you a full recovery. Just know that there will always be a spot with the organization for you." said New York Mets owner Corey Sacrey.
The team did say as a tribute they would be moving ahead with the Fernando Martinez bobblehead giveaway on July 25th, with the team donating a portion of ticket revenue to the charity of Fernando's choosing.
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