Boulders Centerfielder Jared McDonald Suffers Spleen Injury

Last Thursday in Sussex County, Rockland Boulders centerfielder Jared McDonald attempted to make a diving catch on a line drive hit into the left-center gap by Miners third baseman Dustin Lawley. McDonald sustained a season-ending laceration on the spleen.

Unbelievably, McDonald continued to play the rest of the game. Hours later McDonald started to feel ill and was admitted to the hospital and placed in ICU. As of yesterday, he was placed in a regular room and is resting comfortably.

“He knows he has a long road ahead of him which is a six month recovery,” Boulders Manager Jamie Keefe said. “Surgery has been avoided at this but we will know for sure in the next couple of days. We’re not going to get healthy in centerfield right now and have to make some moves.”

McDonald broke the minor-league record by reaching base for a 75^th consecutive game against the Quebec Capitales on June 2 at Palisades Credit Union Park. McDonald was hitting .289 with three homers and 34 RBI, 66 hits, 55 runs, 40 walks and 10 stolen bases. In his first full season with Rockland, McDonald played all 97 regular season games, batting .337 with eight home runs and 60 RBI’s, 129 hits, 84 runs, 21 doubles and 16 stolen bases.