All-Stars Exit Early

Foul Tip Sends Dingler to Sideline Early

Dingler was behind the plate in the second inning when Wilson's foul tip caught him square on the throwing hand, according to Winnipeg Free Press. Catchers absorb punishment every game, but a blow to the throwing hand is especially dangerous. It can affect grip, throwing speed, and the ability to block pitches.

Dingler's decision to stay in briefly showed toughness, but the training staff had the final say. Jake Rogers took over behind the plate once Dingler was pulled in the bottom half of the inning, according to Post Register.

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Kurtz Exits With Illness, McNeil Steps In

Brent Kurtz, the Athletics All-Star, did not play through injury — he was pulled due to illness, according to Yahoo Sports. The nature of the illness was not immediately disclosed. Jeff McNeil replaced him in the lineup, giving Oakland a capable bat to step into the role.

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Two All-Stars Down in One Inning — A Rare Double Exit

Losing two All-Stars in the same inning is extremely unusual in Major League Baseball. Both teams had to adjust on the fly in a game that was still in its early stages. The timing — just the second inning — meant both replacements had to play the bulk of the game, according to SF Examiner.

Dingler's injury status going forward is the bigger concern of the two. A right-hand injury for a catcher can linger. The Tigers have not yet said how serious the damage is, according to The Facts.

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