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Today in History: Ray Chapman dies from on-field injuries in MLB

8/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On August 16, 1920, Ray Chapman, a shortstop for the Cleveland Indians, was struck in the head by a pitch during a game against the New York Yankees. He died the next day, marking him as the only Major League Baseball player to die from injuries sustained in a game. This tragic incident raised awareness about player safety.

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Story summary

On August 16, 1920, Ray Chapman, a shortstop for the Cleveland Indians, was struck in the head by a pitch during a game against the New York Yankees. He died the next day, marking him as the only Major League Baseball player to die from injuries sustained in a game. This tragic incident raised awareness about player safety.