Brandon McCarthy "Alert, Awake and Resting" Following Surgery

Oakland Athletics right-hander Brandon McCarthy is "alert, awake and resting" after undergoing surgery late Wednesday night to relieve pressure in the back of his head caused by an epidural hematoma, the team announced yesterday evening:

The two-hour surgery was performed at approximately 9 p.m., with the procedure including the evacuation of an epidural hemorrhage and stabilization of the skull fracture.

Another CT Scan taken at 12:30 p.m. today demonstrated improvement from his previous scan, and the epidural hemorrhage had subsided. McCarthy is currently resting in the critical care unit of the hospital.

McCarthy, 29, was hit in the back of the head by a line drive off the bat of Erick Aybar in the fourth inning Wednesday evening. Upon contact, the right-hander immediately dropped to ground as his legs appeared to go limp, but still managed to walk off the field under his own power several minutes later.

McCarthy was taken to a nearby hospital where a CT scan revealed an epidural hematoma, a brain contusion and a skull fracture. Following a second CT scan, doctors decided that immediate surgery to relieve pressure was the best course of action.

The club has said they will release more information on McCarthy's situation as it becomes available.

Injuries involving head trauma of any kind are always incredibly scary and dangerous. The A's staff should be commended for taking every precaution with McCarthy despite his outwardly appearing fine. We here at MLBDD send our thoughts, prayers and best wishes to Brandon and his family, and hope for a full and speedy recovery.