Texas Rangers pitcher Patrick Corbin had a close call ahead of the team’s recent game against the Los Angeles Angels, nearly missing the outing due to a mysterious and alarming health incident.
Just days before his scheduled start at Globe Life Field, Corbin was left unable to walk after being bitten by an unidentified venomous animal. Speaking to reporters after earning his first win of the season, the veteran left-hander described the situation as both bizarre and frightening.
“The team doctors told me there was venom in my foot,” Corbin said, per ESPN. “They’re not even sure what bit me. I’ve never gone through anything like that before—it was really strange.”
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the bite, Corbin received treatment and was eventually cleared to pitch. He went on to deliver a strong performance, allowing just one run across five and a half innings in the Rangers’ 3-1 victory.
Texas manager Bruce Bochy had previously labeled Corbin’s status as a “50/50” decision, citing significant swelling in the pitcher’s ankle caused by the bite.
Corbin explained that the pain and inflammation were intense the morning of the game. “It was really swollen. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to pitch,” he said. “My wife was pretty worried. I went in early for treatment and just took it from there.”
Thanks to medical care and some well-timed ankle wrapping, Corbin said the discomfort became manageable, allowing him to take the mound. However, he was held out of Thursday’s follow-up game to give him additional recovery time.
Now in his 13th MLB season and first with the Rangers, the two-time All-Star is optimistic he’ll be ready for his next appearance.
“I’m lucky I made it through the game,” Corbin said. “Now I’ve got some time to heal up and be ready to go again.”
