A three—year—old girl whose skull was fractured by a line drive during batting practice at Dodger Stadium underwent surgery on Tuesday.
In a statement, officials from the Childrens Hospital Los Angeles said they expect the girl will be well enough for release by the end of the week.
“The surgery went off well and we anticipate a full recovery,” said Dr. J. Gordon McComb, the hospital’s head of neurosurgery.
The accident occurred on Monday when Dodgers catcher Russell Martin hit a line drive in the stands near third base, hitting the girl and knocking her unconscious, said Dodgers spokesman Joe Jareck. The girl was sitting with her father, who rushed her to the first—aid station. The fire department transported her to the hospital.
Batting practice continued
Mr. Jareck said batting practice continued, but Martin was upset by the incident and has offered to pay for her medical expenses. Mr. Jareck said he did not have the girl’s name.
A hospital spokeswoman would not comment on the girl’s condition, citing patient privacy laws.
Mr. Martin said he spoke with the Janelle’s father on Tuesday.
“I’m just glad to hear that she had surgery earlier today and she’s doing better, and long—term she’s going to be OK,” he said. “I’m sure she’s still a little bit shaken up. It’s definitely tough for the whole family, but at least the good news is that she’s going to be OK.”
Mr. Martin said he’d like to visit Janelle when the time is right.
“My prayers were with her yesterday, and she’s OK today, so that’s a good thing,” he said.
Mr. Martin declined to comment on his offer to pay her expenses.
