Orioles second baseman Jorge Mateo exited Sunday’s recreation towards the Rays (an eventual 4-3 Rays win) after a really unlucky accident within the on-deck circle. 

Earlier than the underside of the fourth inning, Cedric Mullins was on account of begin issues off for the Orioles whereas Mateo was slotted behind him. Mullins was loosening up together with his bat when Mateo leaned all the way down to seize one thing from the bottom. Mullins’ bat got here down proper as Mateo was elevating up his head and the bat linked with the again of Mateo’s helmet, probably even getting a few of his head and/or neck. It may be seen right here on the prime of the video:  

After the sport, Orioles supervisor Brandon Hyde advised reporters that Mateo is in concussion protocol. On Monday, the Orioles positioned him on the 7-day concussion injured record. 

Mateo, 28, has been largely serving because the Orioles’ on a regular basis second baseman. He is hitting .246/.294/.447 with 12 doubles, a triple, three homers, 13 RBI, 19 runs, 10 stolen bases and 1.4 WAR this season. 

As a corresponding transfer to Mateo hitting the IL, the Orioles referred to as up utility prospect Connor Norby. He is seen time at proper discipline, left discipline, second base and shortstop up to now two seasons within the minors. In 51 video games with Triple-A Norfolk this season, Norby is hitting .286/.374/.510 with 17 doubles, a triple, 9 homers, 36 RBI, 42 runs and 7 stolen bases. A second-round decide within the 2021 draft out of East Carolina, Norby has been ranked within the top-100 prospect lists earlier than by each Baseball America and Baseball Prospectus. 

Additionally of be aware right here is the Orioles determined to go away prime prospect Jackson Holliday within the minors to maintain engaged on issues after his poor MLB stint earlier this season.