Aroldis Chapman Shows Off His Staples

Feb 15, 2014; Goodyear, AZ, USA; Cincinnati Reds pitcher Aroldis Chapman during team workouts on the practice fields of Goodyear Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Cincinnati Reds closer Aroldis Chapman was nailed by a line drive to the face on Wednesday, resulting in broken bones above his left eye. We all feared the worst, but thankfully that wasnt the case to be and the Cuban flame thrower is in good spirits, evident to a picture he posted today. To Chapman, though, there is a long way back, and he instagram a picture that had many cringing.

The Cincinnati enquire posted a post-surgery picture Friday showing a row of staples across his skull. The hard-to-stomach image was accompanied by a message in Spanish from Chapman thanking his fans for their thoughts and prayers and promising all is well, saying he was just waiting to be discharged.

The flame-throwing lefty was sent sprawling to the ground Wednesday night after a Salvador Perez liner drive off his face. Chapman fell immediately, legs flailing, as medical personnel rushed to the field.

He was carted from the field, and the spring training game between the Reds and Royals was canceled soon afterwards.

He had facial surgery Thursday. The team doctor, Dr. Timothy Kremchek, said Chapman could begin throwing again six to eight weeks which would likely mean a return to game action in late May.

We will continue to give you updates on Chapman when available, the goal is that he could begin some exercises in 10-14 days from now.