Parents of Little Leaguer Injured by Wild Pitch Sue Injury

A boy and his parents filed a $100,000 lawsuit against Little League officials Thursday, alleging that they were negligent in allowing a pitcher known for throwing wildly to continue to take the mound.

According to a civil suit filed in Orange County Superior Court, Ryan Balthazor was hit in the face with a baseball while playing in a Saddleback Little League game in El Toro last April.

Ryan’s parents, Dennis and Nancy Balthazor, allege in the suit that managers, coaches and umpires allowed the pitcher to play even when they knew he “was wild in his pitching and had previously hurt other batters” during games. The pitcher, also a defendant in the suit, is identified only as “Doe 71.”

Ryan suffered physical injuries to his face as well as mental injuries, according to the suit. His parents are seeking $50,000 in general damages from Little League Baseball and the Saddleback Little League, the suit said.

Nancy Balthazor suffered emotional distress and “great mental pain and suffering” watching her son get hurt, the suit said. She is also seeking $50,000 general damages.

The Balthazors also contend Little League officials were negligent in allowing the game to continue even when the lighting was insufficient.

Attorneys for the Balthazors and Little League officials could not be reached for comment Thursday.