Athletics prospect Ryan Lasko progressing after scary collision, finally regaining feeling in legs after broken back

Athletics outfield prospect Ryan Lasko is finally starting to get feeling back in his legs after a scary collision in a game last month that led to him having to undergo surgery to repair a broken back.

Lasko, 24, was playing in a game with the Midland RockHounds, the Athletics’ Double-A affiliate last month and was trying to track down a ball in the gap. He dove to try and make a catch, but collided with a teammate and took the brunt of the hit to his head. 

While Lasko’s teammate stood up and chased down the ball, Lasko remained down on the field and was carted off. The collision itself is ugly, but can be seen here.

Lasko underwent spinal decompression and stabilization surgery after he fractured his C6-C7 vertebrae on June 30. While he was stable shortly after the surgery, he did not have feeling in his lower half. Lasko confirmed on social media on Monday that the sensation is starting to come back and that he’s made significant progress in his recovery.

“I’m currently feeling much better,” Lasko wrote on his Instagram story. “I have sensation from my feet up to my knees, along with a lot of involuntary leg movements. I also have been getting some sensation in the side of my thighs, hamstrings and back. I currently have about 75% of usage in my left hand and about 50% in my right.

“I’m very happy with my progress and once again, so thankful for all the love and support. It has continued to help me get up every day and work my hardest.”

Further specifics on his recovery, or when he may be able to compete again, are not yet known.

Lasko entered the season as the Athletics’ No. 18 prospect after they selected him in the second round of the 2023 MLB Draft. He worked his way up to the team’s Triple-A affiliate last season, but started the 2026 campaign in Double-A. Before the injury, he held a .209 batting average through 281 plate appearances this season.