In the realm of baseball, few plays are as exhilarating and rare as the double play. The culmination of strategic positioning, split-second decision-making, and flawless execution, double plays often turn the tide of a game. Yet, within the realm of double plays, there exist even more extraordinary feats—plays so rare that they are etched into the annals of baseball history as legends. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the most elusive of double plays, each distinguished by its unique circumstances and the exceptional skill required for its execution.
The Unassisted Triple Play: A Feat of Singular Brilliance
At the pinnacle of rare baseball plays stands the unassisted triple play. As the name suggests, this play requires the remarkable effort of a single fielder to achieve three outs in a single play. The sequence typically involves catching a line drive, tagging a baserunner, and then completing the third out by either stepping on a base or making a throw to another fielder.
Since the inception of Major League Baseball in the late 19th century, only a select few players have accomplished this feat. With just 15 recorded instances since the turn of the 20th century, the unassisted triple play stands as a testament to both the scarcity of the occurrence and the unparalleled skill of those who achieve it.
One such remarkable moment unfolded on July 29, 2009, when Franklin Gutierrez, patrolling center field for the Cleveland Indians, etched his name into baseball history. In a game against the Toronto Blue Jays, with runners on first and second base, Gutierrez snared a line drive off the bat of Marco Scutaro. He then swiftly tagged second base to retire the runner who had strayed too far from the bag, before finally tagging out the confused runner from first base, completing the unassisted triple play to the astonishment of fans and players alike.
The Triple Play with a Fly Ball: Seizing Opportunity in the Skies
While not as rare as the unassisted triple play, the triple play involving a fly ball remains a noteworthy achievement in baseball lore. This sequence demands a fielder to catch a fly ball, tag a baserunner who has ventured too far from their base, and then deliver a throw to an infielder to complete the triple play.
Since the late 19th century, there have been 39 recorded instances of this triple play variant, highlighting its scarcity even within the broader landscape of baseball history. Among these instances, one particularly impressive play stands out, executed by Cody Bellinger of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2019.
During a game against the San Diego Padres, with runners on first and second base, a high fly ball was hit to shallow right field. Showing exceptional awareness and agility, Bellinger made the catch, then quickly turned to see the runner on second base rounding third in an attempt to score. Bellinger unleashed a laser throw to his infielder, who adeptly tagged the runner from second base, completing the triple play and leaving spectators in awe of the athleticism displayed on the field.
The Triple Play with a Line Drive: Reacting with Lightning Reflexes
In the realm of defensive prowess, the triple play executed with a line drive stands as a testament to the quick thinking and lightning-fast reflexes of baseball fielders. This rare play unfolds when a fielder catches a sharply hit line drive, swiftly tags a baserunner, and then delivers a precise throw to an infielder to secure the third out.
The execution of this play demands not only exceptional reaction time but also a keen understanding of the game situation and the ability to anticipate the movements of both the ball and the baserunners. Among the rare instances of this triple play variant, one standout moment occurred in 2017, courtesy of Carlos Correa of the Houston Astros.
In a game against the Detroit Tigers, with runners on first and second base, a line drive rocketed off the bat towards Correa at shortstop. Displaying extraordinary reflexes, Correa snatched the ball out of the air, then swiftly tagged the runner attempting to advance from second base. With a seamless transition, Correa fired a bullet throw to his teammate at second base, completing the triple play and leaving fans and analysts alike marveling at the defensive mastery on display.
The Triple Play with a Bunt: Seizing Opportunity in the Infield
Completing our exploration of rare triple plays is the variant involving a bunt. In this sequence, a fielder must field a bunt, execute a throw to an infielder to retire a baserunner, and then rely on the infielder to deliver a throw to another infielder to secure the second out.
This play, while less frequently seen than other triple play variants, exemplifies the strategic acumen and defensive precision required to capitalize on a moment of offensive vulnerability. Throughout the annals of baseball history, instances of this triple play variant have been scarce, further highlighting its rarity and the exceptional skill required for its execution.
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In conclusion
While double plays are a staple of baseball defense, certain variants stand out for their rarity and the extraordinary skill they demand. From the unassisted triple play to the triple play with a bunt, each variant represents a unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and instinct that captures the essence of defensive brilliance in America’s pastime. As fans continue to marvel at the feats of baseball’s finest defenders, these rare plays serve as enduring testaments to the remarkable athleticism and skill found within the sport.
