Oakland Athletics prospect Ryan Lasko is sharing encouraging news about his recovery after suffering a serious back injury during a frightening on-field collision roughly a month ago. The young outfielder took to social media Monday to let fans know he has regained some feeling in his legs.
Lasko underwent surgery on June 30 to repair a fractured C6-C7 vertebra — bones in the neck area of the spine. The injury occurred when Lasko and his Double-A Midland teammate Devin Taylor both dove for a flyball during a game in Frisco, Texas. After the collision, Lasko lay motionless on the field, alarming players and fans alike.
In a post on X, Lasko described his current condition in detail. “I’m currently feeling much better,” he wrote. “I have sensation from my feet up to my knees, along with a lot of involuntary leg movements. I also have been getting some sensation in the side of my thighs, hamstrings and back. I currently have about 75% usage of my left hand and about 50% in my right.”
Lasko also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he has received. “I’m very happy with my progress and once again, so very thankful for all the love and support. It has continued to help me get up everyday and work my hardest.”
The 24-year-old was chosen by the Athletics in the second round of the 2023 amateur draft out of Rutgers University. Before the injury, he was hitting .209 with six home runs, 34 RBIs, and a .635 OPS for the Double-A Midland squad this season.
Lasko has shown promise at higher levels of the minor league system as well. He appeared in 13 games at Triple-A Las Vegas last year and participated in 21 games in the Arizona Fall League — a showcase for top prospects — where he batted .357 and stole nine bases.
