Shift rod bent.. how?

[Wesleyvandenherik]

My friend and I were fishing the other weekend and the Suzuki d175 motor was stuck in forward gear. When taking the lower unit off it became clear that the shift rod was bent. See image. Does anyone know how this could have happened?
06FD0673-81DC-49B4-B771-4066506DBEFB.jpeg

[briscoe]

I think if you struck the lower unit it would have knocked a hole in it. I don't think it could be bent installing lower unit. Bolts aren't that strong to bend it. ***. 20210619_182505.jpg

[briscoe]

Not much area to strike.