OSU freshman pitcher seriously injured in car crash out of the hospital, family says

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Oregon State freshman pitcher Tyler Bellerose, who was seriously injured in a car crash earlier this month, is now out of the hospital and transitioning to an inpatient rehab facility, his family announced Tuesday. According to a fundraiser created on Bellerose’s behalf, he sustained significant injuries in the April 13 crash, including a traumatic brain injury identified as a temporal lobe contusion. He also suffered a neck injury, along with swelling and a small amount of bleeding near his spine. While hospitalized, Bellerose also experienced limited movement in his left arm and shoulder, as well as no movement in his left leg. OSU confirmed the crash was related to their decision to cancel a game against the University of Oregon on April 14. Despite the severity of his injuries, Bellerose survived the accident and has begun what is expected to be a long road to recovery. The Oregon State baseball community and supporters are rallying around him, offering encouragement and support. After the team took to the field on April 17, they honored Bellerose pregame by warming up in shirts that said, “Bellerose Strong” and featured his number on them. According to posts on social media, the shirts are for sale, with all proceeds going to support the Bellerose family. The Bellerose family made the following statement on the fundraiser page, regarding Tyler's recovery and the support they've received: "There are moments in life that change everything in an instant. For our family, that moment came on April 13. Since then, we’ve been taking things one moment at a time while leaning on faith, hope, and the incredible support around us. Tyler suffered a traumatic brain injury, and the road has been incredibly difficult. But through it all, he continues to show us what strength really looks like. Before we could even make it from Southern California, Tyler was surrounded by his Beaver family, the coaching staff and team, who stayed with him through the night. That kind of love is something we will never forget. Since that moment, the entire Beaver baseball community, along with our family, friends, and even people we’ve never met, have lifted us up with prayers, messages, and overwhelming generosity. You’ve carried us through the hardest days and reminded us we are not alone. Today, we are grateful to share an important step forward: Tyler is leaving the hospital and transitioning to an inpatient rehabilitation facility in Eugene, Oregon. While this is a huge milestone, the journey ahead will be challenging. Tyler continues to face limited movement on his left side, no movement in his left leg, and rehab will be an intense process focused on regaining strength and independence. Because of you, Tyler has access to the care and support he needs for this next phase. We truly believe he feels the love surrounding him and it’s helping carry him forward. Please continue to keep Tyler in your thoughts and prayers as he begins this next chapter. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with Tyler and our family."