Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Pete Fairbanks recently returned from the injured list sporting a noticeable black eye. While some might have assumed it was related to the hip injury that sidelined him since May 28th, the truth is a bit more unconventional. Fairbanks revealed the shiner was the result of a friendly pool basketball game gone wrong with his 3-year-old son.
Attempting to impart some basketball wisdom to his son, Fairbanks was demonstrating post-up moves under the basket when the unexpected occurred. His son inadvertently pulled the hoop down, resulting in a direct hit to Fairbanks' face.
As Fairbanks explained, "We were playing at our new house in the pool, and I pulled the hoop down onto my face after dunking on a 3-year-old trying to teach him an early lesson in life that, when you're in the paint, you cannot be caught unaware underneath the rim."
While Fairbanks' teammates understandably enjoyed some lighthearted ribbing at his expense, the team is undoubtedly relieved to have him back in action. Prior to the injury, Fairbanks was having an excellent season, boasting a 1.54 ERA with 10 strikeouts and 5 saves in 13 appearances.
The Rays, currently holding the best record in Major League Baseball, recently celebrated their 50th win of the season, continuing their impressive run.
