Rehabilitation Progress at Kessler Institute
Ryan Lasko, a 24-year-old outfielder for the Athletics' Midland team, is undergoing rehabilitation at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey. The treatment began on July 16, following his discharge from a hospital where he spent more than two weeks after a paralyzing injury.
Lasko’s recovery involves relearning fundamental functional tasks through intensive repetition. According to reports, he has been working to sit up independently, a process requiring hundreds of repetitions to regain control and strength in his upper body.
The Oakland Athletics organization describes every incremental gain in Lasko's physical therapy as a significant milestone. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound athlete is known for his aggressive playing style, which has become the focus of medical attention following his latest injury.
Details of the June 30 Collision
The injury occurred on June 30 during a road game in Frisco, Texas. Lasko suffered a paralyzing collision while competing with right fielder Devin Taylor for a ball in the outfield.
Medical professionals diagnosed Lasko with fractures to the C6 and C7 vertebrae. The damage resulted in tetraplegia, defined as the loss of motor or sensory function in all four limbs and the torso. The severity of the injury required emergency spinal decompression and stabilization surgery.
Lasko was flown home to West Orange, New Jersey, after his hospital stay. The transport involved lying on a stretcher for three and a half hours. His mother, Patti Lasko; father, James Lasko; and girlfriend, Alli Graff, remained by his side during the flight.
Player Profile and Post-Injury Statements
Baseball America identified Lasko as a second-round draft pick in 2023. The publication noted that he was known for getting to balls through "sheer will and occasional disregard for his body." This reputation for high-intensity play preceded the incident in Frisco.
Lasko addressed the nature of his playing style and his current situation following the accident. He stated that he would pursue the ball the same way "100 times out of 100," indicating no change in his approach to the game despite the consequences.
Describing the psychological impact of the injury, Lasko compared his experience to going through a grieving process similar to death. This characterization highlights the profound personal adjustment required as he navigates life with tetraplegia.