Athletics Prospect Ryan Lasko Awaits Sensation After Spinal Surgery Following On-Field Collision

Ryan Lasko, a highly-regarded outfield prospect within the Athletics organization, is currently facing a challenging recovery after undergoing spinal surgery. The procedure was necessitated by fractured vertebrae sustained during a jarring collision with a teammate in a recent Double-A game, leaving him without sensation in his lower extremities.

The 24-year-old was playing center field for the Double-A Midland RockHounds when the incident occurred. While attempting a diving catch, Lasko collided with his right field teammate, Devin Taylor, who was also converging on the ball.

Both players committed fully to the play, but their paths intersected as they hit the ground. While Taylor was able to quickly recover and retrieve the loose ball that had split the two defenders, Lasko remained on the field following the impact.

After being transported off the field, medical evaluations revealed Lasko had fractured his C6-C7 vertebrae. He subsequently underwent spinal decompression and stabilization surgery to address the injury and was reported to be in stable condition.

However, due to persistent swelling, Lasko has not yet regained feeling in his lower body, a critical aspect of his ongoing recovery.

Athletics manager Mark Kotsay addressed Lasko's condition, expressing optimism for his future. “There’s hope the feeling comes back,” Kotsay stated on Wednesday.

Lasko's Promising Career Trajectory

Lasko is considered one of the Athletics' most promising young talents, having entered the current season ranked as the franchise's No. 18 prospect by MLB Pipeline. He was selected by the Athletics in the second round of the 2023 MLB Draft.

Although he began the current season with the Double-A squad, Lasko had already advanced to Triple-A Las Vegas during the previous season, demonstrating his rapid progression through the minor league system.

In his appearances this year, Lasko has maintained a slash line of .209/.275/.360, contributing six home runs, five triples, and 34 runs batted in.