Daniel Brito, Phillies prospect who collapsed at Frontier Field in 2021, throws out first pitch

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) – Daniel Brito has literally given it his all to make it back out on the baseball diamond.

The Philadelphia Phillies prospect collapsed during the first inning of a game between the Rochester Red Wings and his Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs on July 31, 2021.

Brito suffered a brain hemorrhage and was rushed to the University of Rochester’s Strong Memorial Hospital. The 23-year-old underwent multiple surgeries that ultimately saved his life. He spent 59 days in the ICU Unit. And now, less than 14 months later, Brito was back on that same field that almost ended his life.

“If he wasn’t close to us and didn’t get to the OR as quickly as he did, it’s very likely he wouldn’t be with us today,” said Deb Roberts, the Director of Neuro ICU at Strong Memorial.

Thursday night’s game between the Wings and Iron Pigs gave Brito a chance to reconnect with the doctors and nurses that saved his life. It’s of course a sensitive topic for the native of Venezuela. But he remains positive about the future.

‘Thinking back was not a fun time for him, but to know where he’s at today and looking forward, he’s optimistic that everything’s going to go well,” said Brito, via a translator.

Daniel Brito has since resumed baseball activities, including hitting, fielding, and weightlifting.