Croix Bethune’s head-turning rookie season came to an abrupt end when she suffered a torn meniscus while throwing out the first pitch at a Washington Nationals game last week.
The injury will require surgery and will land Bethune on the season-ending injury list, the Washington Spirit said Wednesday.
Spirit coach Jonatan Giráldez said the injury occurred during the ceremonial first pitch.
“She had a problem making the first pitch in the baseball game,” he said, according to the Associated Press. “She is not going to be available this season. It is part of life. You have to keep going.”
Croix Bethune will miss the remainder of the 2024 season with injury.
We are wishing you a healthy recovery, Croix! Sending our love and support your way 🫶https://t.co/6gn2kqiIC1
— Washington Spirit (@WashSpirit) September 4, 2024
The 23-year-old packed more accomplishments in her first half-year as a professional than many players squeeze into a full career. Bethune was selected third in the 2023 NWSL Draft, with Washington trading defensive anchor Sam Staab to obtain the pick. It paid off swiftly as she became an instant starter in the wake of Ashley Sanchez’s departure via a trade on the same day. Bethune took home NWSL Rookie of the Month honors in March/April, May and June;…
