Watch: Colton Cowser drops to the ground after getting hit by pitch during a bases-loaded situation

Game 2 of the American League Wild Card series was one to forget for Baltimore Orioles outfielder Colton Cowser. The 24-year-old struggled throughout the night, going 0-for-3 with 3 strikeouts, however, it was the third plate appearance that will likely live with him for some time.

In the bottom of the 5th inning, Colton Cowser came to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs. At arguably the most important moment of the game, Cowser was hit with a 97 mph fastball and struck out to end the inning.

Unfortunately for Cowser, being hit by that pitch was the final at-bat of the game for him as he was forced to exit. While he remained in the game during the 6th inning on defense, he was later taken out of the game before the 7th. In his place, the Baltimore Orioles brought in fellow rookie Heston Kjerstad.

The strikeout and subsequent injury in the bases-loaded situation could not have come at a worse time. Even though Cowser struck out in each at-bat, the rest of the lineup was restricted by the Royals pitching staff, holding the O's to only one run in the elimination game.

The Kansas City Royals were able to score in the following inning and were able hold off the Orioles' push in the final stages.

The Royals advance to the National League Division Series to take on Aaron Judge and the New York Yankees.

Colton Cowser had a crushing end to an otherwise impressive rookie campaign

Despite an disappointing end to his 2024 season, Cowser was a force throughtout the year for the Baltimore Orioles. The 5th overall pick of the 2021 MLB Draft more than lived up to the position where he was selected. Through 153 games this year, Cowser stepped up for the Orioles, posting an impressive .242 batting average with 24 home runs, 69 RBIs, and a .768 OPS.

As a result of his strong campaign, Colton Cowser is the frontrunner to win the American League Rookie of the Year Award. If he wins the award it will be even more outstanding given the other rookies that are considered top contenders for the award.

Luis Gil and Austin Wells of the New York Yankees, Wilyer Abreu of the Boston Red Sox, and Mason Miller of the Oakland Athletics are all consider threats to Colton Cowser's AL Rookie of the Year crown.