What is torn ACL? Looking into one of the cruelest sports injuries after Rhys Hoskins stretchered off

Phillies’ 1B Rhys Hoskins recently suffered an ACL injury which will most likely leave him out of play for the entire 2023 season. Rhys followed an increasing number of players who have been devastatingly injured this pre-season. But what exactly is an ACL injury, and what other players have suffered similar fates?

What does ACL stand for?

ACL stands for anterior cruciate ligament, which is one of the major ligaments in the knee. It is responsible for stabilizing the knee joint and preventing the shin bone from sliding forward. When the ACL is torn, it can cause significant pain, swelling, and instability in the knee. In many cases, surgery is required to repair or reconstruct the ligament. Recovery from an ACL injury can take several months or even a year, and many athletes are never able to fully regain their previous level of performance.

ACL injuries are one of the cruelest injuries in modern sports. They can occur in a split second and can have a lasting impact on an athlete's career. While advances in medical technology and rehabilitation techniques have made it possible for many athletes to return to the field after an ACL injury, it is still a major hurdle to overcome.

Bo Jackson’s ACL injury (1991)

Two-sport star Bo Jackson suffered an NFL career ending injury and could never be the same in baseball.

Bo Jackson's injury is one of the most infamous examples of an ACL injury. It ended his career in football and greatly affected his baseball career as well. Jackson was a dynamic two-sport athlete who was known for his speed and power. But after he suffered a dislocated hip and a torn ACL in 1991, he was never the same player. He returned to baseball after the injury but was never able to recapture his previous form.

Mike Cameron (2005)

Mike Cameron suffered an almost career-ending injury in 2005

Mike Cameron's injury is another example of the severity of ACL injuries. In 2005, he collided with teammate Carlos Beltran while chasing a fly ball. Cameron suffered multiple injuries, including a broken nose, multiple facial fractures, and a torn ACL. He missed the rest of the season but was able to return to the field the following year.

Bill Mueller (2005)

Bill Mueller was forced to retire following a devastating ACL injury

Bill Mueller's injury occurred during a game in 2005, when he tried to avoid a collision with teammate David Ortiz. He suffered a torn ACL that ended his season and ultimately forced him to retire the following year. Mueller was known for his hitting ability and had won a batting title in 2003.

Troy Tulowitzki (2017)

Troy Tulowitzki was unable to return to the MLB following an injury

Troy Tulowitzki is another notable player who suffered a torn ACL. In 2017, while playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, he suffered the injury while trying to run out a ground ball. He attempted a comeback with the New York Yankees in 2019 but was forced to retire due to ongoing injury issues.

Mariano Rivera (2012)

Yankees legend, Mariano Rivera missed the rest of the 2012 MLB season following an ACL injury

Yankees’ legend Mariano Rivera's injury occurred in 2012 when he was shagging fly balls during batting practice. He tore his ACL and missed the rest of the season. Rivera was a legendary closer for the New York Yankees and one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball history.