Former Cincinnati Reds All-Star Sean Casey's sentimental return to the baseball diamond turned agonizing when he was hurt playing for the viral favorite Savannah Bananas.

The injury occurred Friday evening at the historic Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati, a backdrop that once hailed Casey as one of its heroes.

Sean Casey Tears Hamstring While Running the Bases

Bananas vs Tigers: Broadcaster Says 3-time Reds All-Star Sean Casey Bananas vs Tigers: Broadcaster Says 3-time Reds All-Star Sean Casey
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Casey, 51, was cheered by a deafening crowd when he came up to bat on an afternoon intended to be a fun return to the game. But the atmosphere suddenly changed when Casey tried to leg out a hit and sensed something amiss.

As FanDuel Sports Network announcer Jim Day reported via the Cincinnati Enquirer, Casey was rounding first base when he suddenly clutched at his leg. Although some figured that he was playing a joke or just posturing for the crowd, it quickly became apparent that the injury was actual and serious.

"I thought he was just playing to the crowd. You know like, 'Hey, I'm an older guy and it's hard for me to run.' Turns out he completely tore his hamstring," said Day. "He completely tore the hamstring off the bone. He's got surgery this week. Took one for the team... We wish Sean Casey the best. That's a tough one right there."

Injury Occurred During the Seventh Inning of Viral Game

The injury occurred in the bottom of the seventh inning, according to Fox News. Casey was batting when the ball got past the catcher, and he had just a shot at reaching first base. When he made the turn to second base, he grimaced and grabbed the back of his leg, indicating that something was amiss.

The Bananas immediately summoned a pinch-runner, and Casey hobbled off the field to try to stop him, surrounded by applause and alarm.

Sean Casey Looks Back on Viral Moment with Savannah Bananas

Despite the stinging defeat, Casey was thankful for the experience during his debut game. The former MLB first baseman offered his thoughts on X, pointing to how special it was to return to playing in front of the Cincinnati faithful.

Savannah Bananas' Unconventional Baseball Aesthetic Is Spinning Heads

The Savannah Bananas are infamous for their goofy, fan-oriented style of baseball. utilizing entertainment, dance, and crazy rules in a style they label as "Banana Ball." The team has been compared to the Harlem Globetrotters and has gained viral fame on both TikTok and YouTube.