When a wild pitch by Florida Gators closer Michael Byrne hit the dirt and ricocheted into catcher Mike Rivera’s left hand during the ninth inning of UF’s SEC Tournament battle with Auburn on May 24, one thought raced through Rivera’s mind.
Not again.
Rivera, who was sidelined for 22 games after breaking the hamate bone in his right hand in a game against Florida State on April 11, was met by trainers on the field as teammates held their breath.
“Everyone was kind of scared,” catcher and designated hitter JJ Schwarz said.