Athletics prospect Ryan Lasko experienced a very scary moment more than two months ago when he collided with a teammate in the outfield, paralyzing him. But now, Lasko finally is returning home after he was released from a rehab facility where he had been since the accident.
22 strong, always 💚💛
Ryan is heading home today after spending time in a rehab facility and he received a special surprise clap out from everyone along the way! He will begin out patient therapy and continue his journey to recovery.
We’re with you every step of the way,… pic.twitter.com/qSWXQLUvdT
— Athletics (@Athletics) September 16, 2026
Lasko was playing for the A’s Double-A affiliate, Midland Rockhounds, in a late-June contest against the Frisco Roughriders when a ball was hit into the right-center field gap in the bottom of the third inning. Going for the ball, Lasko dove and collided with teammate Devin Taylor. Taylor was able to get up, get the ball and throw it back into the infield, but Lasko did not get up and appeared motionless.
Lasko’s injury was revealed to be a spinal fracture that he underwent surgery on July 1. It is unknown when or if he will return to the field, but Lasko’s focus now is on outpatient therapy and continuing his journey toward recovery.
Lasko, the No. 41 overall pick of the 2023 MLB Draft, was rated as a top A’s prospect by MLB Pipeline before he got hurt. Hitting .209 with six home runs and 34 RBI in 73 games this season, he showed a lot of promise, and if he is able to return, the A’s hope he can contribute down the line.
Lasko played his college baseball career at Rutgers, where he starred as a top player for the Scarlet Knights. Batting .314 with 38 home runs and 135 RBI overall in his career, he won numerous accolades, including multiple All-Big Ten First Team selections.