19 Ray Chapman
This one may be way before most of us were alive but it was quite the interesting incident. Chapman began his career in 1912 with the Cleveland Naps, which then changed their name to the Cleveland Indians. On August 16th, 1920 Chapman was hit in the head by NY Yankees pitcher Carl Mays.
Some witnesses said Chapman took a few steps but other witnesses said he instantly fell to the ground. Chapman died in the hospital about 12 hours later. This event led to the requirement for home plate umpires to wear a helmet. To this day, Chapman is the only MLB player that has died from being hit by a pitch. Chapman led the American Leauge with walks and runs during the 1918 season.
