Looking at today’s box score alone, you’d assume Gerrit Cole had a solid day of work allowing just two runs in six innings of work — but it was much tougher than that.
During the sixth inning, Cole had a major scare after Jordan Zimmermann rocketed a line drive right at his head. As you can see below, it even took off his hat:
Tigers SP Jordan Zimmermann almost just decapitated Gerrit Cole. Fortunately, Cole is okay after getting hi… https://t.co/Kdcr3g1gSb
— Landon (@SwervinVolleyer) April 14, 2016
A better look at Cole’s close call:
Scary moment at PNC Park earlier when #Pirates ace Gerrit Cole was hit in the head by Jordan Zimmermann’s liner. pic.twitter.com/UUh5RU2CI1
— Stephen J. Nesbitt (@stephenjnesbitt) April 14, 2016
He was also responsible for the Pirates’ lone error of the day by tossing this pick-off throw to no one in particular:
Just keeping him honest. pic.twitter.com/e2L8s1jv9O
— MLB GIFS (@MLBGIFs) April 14, 2016