A Heartfelt Update from Ben McDonald
Ben McDonald, the beloved color analyst for the Baltimore Orioles, has captured the attention of fans across the league after sharing a dramatic update about a recent incident. On Thursday, McDonald suffered a fall from a deer stand while hunting, plummeting 25 feet. This shocking event left many fans concerned, but McDonald has since provided an encouraging update on his recovery.
In a social media post from a hospital bed on Friday, McDonald shared that he sustained a concussion and two cracked vertebrae. Despite the injuries, he expressed optimism about his recovery and mentioned that he is in good spirits. His message was clear: he is doing better and looking forward to returning to work soon.
On Sunday night, McDonald took to social media again, this time from his home, to provide another update. He acknowledged that there is still one hurdle to overcome—a check-up with a neurologist—before he can be cleared to return to the broadcast booth. If the meeting goes well, McDonald plans to be back behind the microphone when the Orioles face the Colorado Rockies next Friday. His return would be a relief for fans who have been eagerly awaiting his return.
McDonald also took a moment to express his gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received from fans and colleagues. In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter), he greeted fans with his signature “Howdy, howdy” and reassured them that he is fine. He described the fall as “nasty,” but emphasized that he doesn’t remember anything about it. He explained that he has a severe concussion and some cracked vertebrae in his back, which are expected to heal over time.
“I still don’t remember anything about it,” McDonald said. “A couple cracked vertebrae’s in my back that is going to heal fine. Honestly, the more I move around, the better I feel. Can’t move around a whole lot, doctors orders, but I am moving around a little bit.”
He also addressed the importance of safety while hunting, mentioning that he always wears a safety belt. However, on this occasion, something went wrong, and he ended up on his back. “Lesson learned, so wear a safety belt. I got lucky, I am here talking about it. But I will from now on have a safety belt on at all times.”
McDonald is not just a broadcaster; he is a cherished figure in the history of the Orioles organization. He played for the team from 1989 to 1995 and later returned as a broadcaster, making him a staple in the hearts of fans. His injury has been a source of concern, but his positive outlook and determination to return quickly have brought comfort to many.
Fans are eager to see McDonald back in the broadcast booth, and it seems that the wait won’t be too long. With a final check-up scheduled for Tuesday, there is hope that he will be cleared to return by the end of the week. His resilience and dedication to his work continue to inspire those who follow the Orioles.
As the team prepares for their upcoming game against the Colorado Rockies, fans are already looking forward to hearing McDonald’s voice once again. His journey through recovery serves as a reminder of the importance of safety, the power of community support, and the strength of the human spirit.
