Rockies' John Axford leaves spring camp after son bitten by rattlesnake
Colorado Rockies pitcher John Axford left spring training camp last Wednesday after his 2-year-old son, Jameson, was bit in the foot twice by a rattlesnake, according to the Denver Post.
Axford hasn't pitched for the team since last Wednesday. His son was taken to a Phoenix-area hospital and Axford received a call saying the boy was in serious condition.
According to the Post, Jameson was given anti-venom medication. He is currently in stable condition but doctors are trying to stop necrosis of his foot. Axford said that doctors believe his son's foot was saved, but are concerned one of his toes may need to be amputated.
"As bad as it looks, it's looking better," Axford said. "We're trying to take things step by step. Any positive thoughts people have for him would be well-received."
Axford threw a bullpen session at the Rockies' camp on Tuesday but told the Post he doesn't know when he'll be able to return to the team full-time.
- Molly Geary
