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Athletics’ Zack Gelof sues Tigers over injury at Comerica Park

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Athletics third baseman Zack Gelof has filed a lawsuit against the Detroit Tigers, Ilitch Holdings and the Detroit-Wayne County Stadium Authority, alleging he sustained a significant knee injury after colliding with an exposed metal fence at Comerica Park in July.

According to the Detroit Free Press, Gelof filed the lawsuit this week. The incident occurred during the third inning of the July 9 matchup between the Athletics and the Tigers, when Gelof, attempting to make a sliding catch along the left-field foul line, struck his right knee against a section of exposed metal fencing.

The impact not only tore his uniform but also resulted in a deep laceration beneath his right kneecap, forcing him to spend 30 days on the injured list and miss a key stretch of the season.

Gelof’s complaint asserts that the metal fencing was rigid, sharp, and insufficiently protected, creating an unreasonably dangerous condition for players in the field of play, and that the Tigers are to blame for failing to keep players safe.

As a result of the incident, Gelof claims he endured significant physical pain, substantial medical expenses, lost wages, and both professional and emotional distress.

The complaint further notes that, after Gelof’s injury, the Tigers installed padding in the affected area. The lawsuit also says Tigers left fielder Riley Greene, reportedly “acknowledged to reporters that the specific area along that wall is made of metal and can be quite unforgiving during a hard slide.”

The lawsuit seeks an undisclosed amount in compensatory damages for Gelof’s injuries, covering medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional harm. He is also requesting attorney fees, legal costs and any other relief permitted under Michigan law.

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