Giants Place Martinez on 15-Day DL, Expect Rookie To Make A Full Recovery

Giants right-hander Joe Martinez remained hospitalized on Friday after sustaining a concussion and three hairline fractures on the right side of his head after being struck by a batted ball on Thursday, according to a statement released by the club.
The statement said that Martinez, who was hit by a searing line drive off the bat of Milwaukee's Mike Cameron, is in stable and alert condition and is expected to recover fully. He will remain in the hospital for observation for the next three to four days.

Martinez's injury prompted the Giants to place him on the 15-day disabled list and purchase the contract of right-hander Justin Miller. One of the last players cut as Spring Training ended, Miller recorded a 1.46 ERA in 10 exhibition appearances. A non-roster invitee to spring camp, Miller, 31 has pitched in the Majors for parts of five seasons with Toronto and Florida.

In the statement, the Giants and Martinez expressed appreciation for the "hundreds" of good wishes and prayers from fans since Thursday.

Scary Moment for Rookie Joe Martinez

Today's game against the Brewers took a scary turn with two outs in the top of ninth when Brewers center fielder Mike Cameron rocketed a line drive that hit rookie reliever Joe Martinez on the right side of his head, near his temple.

Martinez, who was knocked down, initially stood before crumpling to the ground as team trainers raced to the mound. After a few minutes, he walked off the field, with trainers by his side, as fans gave him a standing ovation.

As he ran toward first base, Cameron looked away in horror. After he pulled into second with a double, he hung his head and was very distraught. According to CSNBA representative Amy Gutierrez, Cameron did not wish to speak when contacted for an interview after the game. Many Giants players gave their thoughts to Cameron after Martinez walked off the field.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to both Martinez and Cameron.