The former Jackson Memorial and Rutgers standout remains hospitalized after suffering fractured vertebrae in a frightening collision while playing for the Oakland Athletics’ Double-A affiliate.
Jackson, NJ – Former Jackson Little League standout and Oakland Athletics prospect Ryan Lasko is recovering after undergoing emergency spinal surgery following a violent collision during a Double-A game in Texas.
Lasko, 24, suffered fractures to his C6 and C7 vertebrae after colliding head-first with teammate Devin Taylor while diving for a fly ball during a game for the Midland RockHounds, the Athletics’ Double-A affiliate.
Jackson community rallies behind hometown star
The frightening injury has prompted an outpouring of support from Lasko’s hometown community, where he first developed as a baseball player.
“Please keep Jackson alumni, Ryan Lasko, in your prayers, as he recovers from a scary collision on the field during a Double A affiliate Midland RockHounds game,” Jackson Little League said in a statement.
“He underwent surgery for a C-6 and C-7 vertebrae fracture. We are wishing you a speedy recovery Ryan! You got this!”
Lasko played his youth baseball in Jackson before starring at Jackson Memorial High School, where he became one of New Jersey’s top prospects.
Rutgers standout became second-round draft pick
After graduating from Jackson Memorial, Lasko continued his career at Rutgers University, developing into one of the Scarlet Knights’ premier outfielders and attracting attention from Major League scouts.
The Oakland Athletics selected Lasko with the 41st overall pick in the second round of the 2023 MLB Draft.
He later signed a professional contract worth approximately $1.7 million, beginning his climb through the Athletics’ farm system with hopes of reaching the major leagues.
Surgery successful as doctors monitor recovery
The Athletics said Lasko underwent spinal decompression and stabilization surgery at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano after suffering the injury.
He is reported to be in stable condition. Team officials have said Lasko temporarily lost sensation in his lower body following the collision, though doctors are hopeful feeling could return as swelling around his spinal cord decreases.
Athletics manager Mark Kotsay said the organization remains optimistic while emphasizing that Lasko’s health is the club’s primary concern.
A’s General Manager David Forst said the organization has remained in contact with Lasko’s family and praised the athletic trainers, paramedics, and medical staff who responded immediately after the collision.
“I’ve been in touch with Ryan’s mom, Patti, to pass along the organization’s support and to let her know that all of us, throughout our system, have them in our thoughts and prayers,” Forst said.
“We are encouraged by the reports and updates from Dr. Poggi, and we will continue to put all of the resources of our medical staff towards supporting Ryan and his recovery.”
The Athletics have not announced a timetable for Lasko’s return to baseball.
Key Points
- Former Jackson Little League and Jackson Memorial standout Ryan Lasko underwent emergency spinal surgery after suffering fractured C6 and C7 vertebrae during a Double-A game.
- The Oakland Athletics prospect collided head-first with teammate Devin Taylor while diving for a fly ball.
- Lasko, a former Rutgers star and second-round MLB Draft pick, remains in stable condition as doctors monitor his recovery.
Related: Ryan Lasko, Jackson Little League, Jackson Memorial High School, Rutgers University, Oakland Athletics