Boston Red Sox outfielders Wiley Abreu and Sedannu Rafaela teamed up for an unexpected and remarkable defensive play on Wednesday.
In the seventh inning, with the score tied at 5-5, Detroit’s Kelly Carpenter launched what he thought would be a game-winning hit—possibly even a home run—into deep right center field. Abreu made an impressive leap to catch the ball at the wall, and it looked like he might accomplish it. But as he brought his arms down, the ball slipped from his glove.
Fortunately, Rafaela was there to snag the ball before it could hit the ground.
Red Sox pitcher Liam Hendrix raised his arm in disbelief as he realized the defense had managed to prevent what could have been a game-winning hit for the Tigers. This moment is officially recorded as a rare 9-8 putout in baseball history.
The 9-8 putout is exceptionally rare, with the last one occurring in September 2003, according to reports.
While this play momentarily lifted the Red Sox’s spirits, the excitement was short-lived. The Tigers eventually clinched a walk-off victory with a hit from Justin Henry’s Malloy, who drove in Andy Ibanez.
Not only did this secure a win for Detroit, but it also marked a sweep of the three-game series for the Red Sox.
