Aroldis Chapman Back At GABP

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

A month after taking a line drive off the forehead Cincinnati Reds start Aroldis Chapman returned to GABP Thursday afternoon to work out his arm after a few weeks off. Before fans get too excited Chapman is still out for a few weeks, he has just returned to work out.

Aroldis Chapman was struck in the head during a spring training game March 19th against the Kansas City Royals. A pitch was hit by Salvador Perez right back to the mound, by the time Chapman put his hand up to protect himself the ball had already hit him in the forehead and bounced to the third base coaches box. As the ballpark fell silent you can see Chapman squirming on the mound, he was removed by a stretcher and transported to an area hospital.

Upon a thorough examination Chapman had a metal plate inserted into his forehead with staples wrapping around him skull. He is out 6-8 weeks but will make a full recovery.

Reading that and seeing the video of the incident is still enough to make you cringe. As bad as that was it is great to see Chapman remain positive throughout the entire ordeal and it is remarkable he is back throwing already.

Chapman is back to throwing long distances as well as strong tossing. Fans have addressed his quick return with much concern, Chapman has a message for the fans.

"I wanna tell my friends and followers in Instagram that are worry about my health that see my videos and photos of me coming back and training. That it was the doctors and training staff of the reds that took the decision that I could start training again. I’m telling you guys this because I have seen a lot of comments ( to take it easy) and I want you guys to know how everything is going in my recovery. I’m feeling great and everything is ok. Love you guys."

Chapman posted that caption on his Instagram following the fan concerns that accompanied the comment sections on his photos and videos. The Reds closer has dominated teams over the past few years, the Reds certainly need him back after a slow and rocky start this season.