Zack Gelof Sues Detroit Tigers Over Fence Injury

Athletics outfielder Zack Gelof has filed a lawsuit seeking damages from the Detroit Tigers, Ilitch Holdings and the Detroit-Wayne County Stadium Authority following a collision with the Comerica Park fence last summer. The Tigers acknowledged the filing on Tuesday, stating that they are aware of the lawsuit but do not comment on pending litigation.

The incident occurred on July 9 during the third inning of a game in which the Athletics lost 4-1 to Detroit. Gelof was attempting a sliding catch in foul territory when he slammed into a metal fence. He immediately grabbed his knee in visible pain, and a tear in his uniform pants marked the point of contact. The impact resulted in a deep cut beneath his right kneecap that narrowly missed the tendon. Gelof did not return to the field until August 10.

Jon Marko, Gelof's attorney, argued that the injury was preventable through basic stadium design. Marko stated that sharp metal fencing in an area where players are required to slide is a "recipe for disaster." He noted that the stadium could have installed cheap padding, similar to the measures taken after the injury, to avoid the incident. Marko compared the safety of the professional venue to that of a little league diamond.

Despite the injury, Gelof posted career highs in home runs and runs batted in during his fourth season. He hit .256 with 22 home runs and 55 RBIs in 111 games. The Athletics finished the season with a 64-98 record, placing them ahead of only the Los Angeles and Colorado Rockies in Major League Baseball.