Brewers' Broxton: Helmet flap 'saved my life'

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Keon Broxton was struck in the head with a pitch during a game against the Colorado Rockies on Thursday, but avoided more serious injury due to an extra protective flap attached to his helmet.

Broxton left the game in the second inning with a bloody nose after a pitch from Antonio Senzatela plunked the 26-year-old center fielder on the helmet.

"That C-flap saved my life," Broxton told WDJT-TV, adding that "it's a blessing." The ball originally hit Broxton in the flap that partially covers his face - which is optional - before ricocheting off and hitting his nose. Broxton added in a postgame interview with Adam McCalvy of MLB.com that "all the players should definitely try (the extra flap) out."

Broxton began the 2017 season 0-6 with two walks and a stolen base. He is coming off of a good rookie campaign with the Brewers in 2016, where he slashed .242/.354/.430 over 75 games.