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| Photo courtesy Sports Illustrated |
On Aug. 21, Heyward was hit in the face by a 90 mph fastball
that fractured his jaw in two places. The outfielder underwent surgery soon after
in which two metal plates were attached to his jaw. Braves general manager
Frank Wren said the metal plates will remain permanently. Heyward was able to
maintain his weight despite dietary restrictions and has been cleared to start eating
more solid foods.
Less than three weeks after his injury, Heyward is scheduled
to participate in batting practice in Atlanta on Friday. Since his restrictive
mouth bands and braces have been removed, Heyward will wear a mouth guard
during on-field activities.
Heyward stated publicly that he hopes to return in time for
the postseason. Wren said he thinks everybody’s goal is for Heyward to return
in October, and they will continue to watch his progress for now.
Heyward will be the latest of many key players to return to
the field after being on the disabled list. Other players include Dodgers’ Zack
Greinke, Yankees’ Curtis Granderson, and Oakland Athletics’ Coco Crisp. The Braves
have suffered since Heyward’s absence and are expected to improve once he
rejoins the team.
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