### Extreme Heat Disrupts MLB Games: Elly De La Cruz and Trent Thornton Fall Ill - On June 22, 2025, Major League Baseball (MLB) faced significant disruptions due to soaring temperatures across the United States. Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz and Seattle Mariners reliever Trent Thornton both experienced health issues during their respective games, raising concerns about player safety in extreme heat conditions. The incidents highlight the growing challenges that athletes face in increasingly severe weather patterns, which can impact performance and well-being on the field [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/elly-la-cruz-vomits-trent-110330008.html][https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/mlb/news/extreme-mlb-heat-sparks-player-safety-fears-as-elly-de-la-cruz-vomits-and-trent-thornton-collapses-in-same-weekend/articleshow/122028746.cms]. ### Overview of the Incidents and Reactions 1. **Elly De La Cruz's Incident**: - During a game against the St. Louis Cardinals, De La Cruz vomited due to the extreme heat but continued to play, even hitting a home run later in the game [https://www.ksdk.com/article/sports/mlb/stl-cardinals/elly-de-la-cruz-vomits-then-homers-in-st-louis-heat-during-loss-to-cardinals/63-8834bab1-eb9d-49d7-88e2-ab038b542001]. 2. **Trent Thornton's Condition**: - Thornton was reported to have suffered a heat-related illness and required assistance to leave the field during a game [https://www.nbcsports.com/mlb/news/reds-elly-de-la-cruz-mariners-reliever-trent-thornton-fall-ill-while-playing-in-extreme-heat]. 3. **Managerial Concerns**: - Mariners manager Dan Wilson expressed concern over Thornton's health, indicating that the extreme heat posed serious risks to player safety [https://www.nbcsports.com/mlb/news/reds-elly-de-la-cruz-mariners-reliever-trent-thornton-fall-ill-while-playing-in-extreme-heat]. ### Supporting Evidence of Heat Impact on Players - **Health Incidents**: - Both players' experiences underscore the potential dangers of playing in extreme heat, which can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. - **Player Safety Protocols**: - The incidents have sparked discussions about the need for enhanced safety protocols during games held in high-temperature conditions, as player health is paramount [https://apnews.com/article/elly-thornton-reds-mariners-mlb-517032429c8363855cde1047226ca44d]. ### Conclusion: The Need for Enhanced Safety Measures - **Key Findings**: 1. **Increased Health Risks**: The incidents involving De La Cruz and Thornton illustrate the heightened health risks athletes face during extreme weather conditions. 2. **Call for Action**: There is a pressing need for MLB to implement stricter safety measures to protect players from the adverse effects of extreme heat. 3. **Awareness and Preparedness**: Teams must prioritize player health by ensuring adequate hydration and monitoring conditions during games. - **Final Thoughts**: As climate change continues to affect weather patterns, MLB and other sports organizations must adapt to ensure the safety and well-being of their athletes [https://www.outkick.com/sports/couple-big-leaguers-were-having-some-serious-issues-saturdays-intense-heat].