Oakland Athletics outfield prospect Ryan Lasko has transitioned to outpatient rehabilitation following a June 30 on-field collision that left him paralyzed. The 24-year-old, who was playing for the Double-A Midland RockHounds, fractured his C6 and C7 vertebrae during a road game against Frisco, Texas. Lasko was diagnosed as a tetraplegic, a condition resulting in the loss of motor or sensory function in all four limbs and the torso.
The injury occurred when Lasko, playing center field, collided with right fielder Devin Taylor while both attempted a diving catch. Following the collision, Lasko underwent emergency surgery for spinal decompression and stabilization. He spent more than two weeks in a Texas hospital before being transported to the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in West Orange, New Jersey, on July 16.
During two months of inpatient therapy, Lasko practiced functional tasks such as moving from his bed to a wheelchair and sitting up independently. Dr. Jeremiah Nieves, a specialist in spinal cord injury, stated that Lasko has made \"tremendous progress\" due to his background as an elite athlete, though he noted that optimism must be \"tempered with a little realism\" during this early phase. Lasko completed his inpatient stay on September 16 and is now continuing treatment as an outpatient several days a week.
The incident highlights the physical risks of professional sports. For the Lasko family and his girlfriend, Alli Graff, the injury has required a total shift in daily life, including Graff undergoing training at the Kessler Institute to serve as a care partner for his routine activities and transition to independence.
Under Major League Baseball's insurance program for work-related injuries, all costs associated with Lasko’s care and rehabilitation will be covered for the remainder of his life. While Lasko has reported experiencing sensations in his legs and feet, he was a 2023 second-round draft pick whose professional career has been halted.
Lasko stated he is \"fully confident\" he will walk again, though medical staff have not confirmed a full recovery is possible. He plans to return to Rutgers University in the spring to finish his final two semesters for a degree in criminal justice with a minor in psychology. Progress will continue through ongoing outpatient sessions at Kessler.