Just like his spectacular catch Tuesday night to rob Arizona Diamondbacks right fielder J.D. Martinez of a home run, Yasiel Puig added to his highlight reel in spite of the Los Angeles Dodgers losing a game.
Manuel Margot’s home run in the third inning had already pulled the San Diego Padres even with the Dodgers. San Diego was threatening to add to their lead, as a pair of singles and walk loaded the bases with two outs.
Cory Spangenberg broke the tie with an RBI single to right field but it also resulted in Hunter Renfroe getting thrown out on his attempt to score from second base.
Puig fielded the ball to his left, stopped on a dime and fired a 96-mph strike to home plate that traveled 270 feet. Austin Barnes said postgame he’s come to expect that type of play from Puig, as unfair as it may be.
“He’s a Gold-Glove right fielder,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “The plays he makes with his arm, the plays he makes with his glove and the many plays he makes to deter a baserunner from advancing.”
Roberts has regularly praised Puig for his contributions this season and the importance they’ve carried for the Dodgers.