A Little League catcher is being sued by a New Jersey woman who was struck in the face by an errant baseball.

Catcher Matthew Migliaccio (11 years old at the time) was warming up a pitcher in the fenced-in bullpen when an errant throw he made caused the ball to hit Elizabeth Lloyd who was seated at a nearby picnic table.  Lloyd is seeking more than $150,000 in damages to cover medical costs stemming from the incident. She’s also seeking an undefined amount for pain and suffering.

The lawsuit alleges Migliaccio’s errant throw was intentional and reckless, “assaulted and battered” Lloyd and caused “severe, painful and permanent” injuries.  Lloyd further claims that Migliaccio’s actions were negligent and careless through “engaging in inappropriate physical and/or sporting activity” near her. She continues to suffer pain and anguish, incur medical expenses and has been unable to carry out her usual duties and activities, the lawsuit says.  In a third count, Lloyd’s husband is suing for the loss of “services, society and consortium” of his wife.

According to Anthony Pagano, a lawyer for the Migliaccios, the negligence and carelessness counts would be covered by homeowner's insurance, but the other counts are not.  The Little League has denied any coverage and is not named in the lawsuit. Pagano calls the lawsuit frivolous and without merit.

“I just think that it’s disgusting that you have people suing an 11-year-old kid for overthrowing his pitcher in the bullpen,” Pagano said. “It’s horrible this can actually happen and get this far. Ultimately, hopefully, justice will prevail.”

—Source:  NYDailyNews.com