Freddy Galvis makes like Andrelton Simmons to rob Braves of hit
This is interesting. It turns out Atlanta Braves defensive wizard Andrelton Simmons — that’s his title, not his position — isn’t the only shortstop capable of making breathtaking plays. His counterpart with the Philadelphia Phillies, Freddy Galvis, can flash some leather as well, and he can throw from awkward angles.
That was proven on Saturday, when Galvis showed his skills off against Simmons’ Braves.
It happened in the sixth inning with Nick Markakis at the plate. Markakis hit a rocket with some slice to the shortstop side of second base that seemingly had plenty of steam to get through for a hit. Galvis, who was shaded up the middle, made a quick move to his left and cut the ball off with a diving stop.
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That was step one. Galvis also had to collect himself and make a strong throw if he hoped to get Markakis. Rather than stand up, he did a full twist from his stomach to his knees to launch a crossbody throw, and it worked. Beautifully we might add.
Here’s what another man who’s made some incredible plays on the infield, Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg, had to say about it.
We echo that.
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The only downside was that Galvis dinged up his shoulder a bit. However, he was able to recover enough to return to his position in the next inning, but was eventually removed in a non-injury related double switch.
As for the game, the Braves rallied for three runs in the seventh and two more in the eighth to win 5-2. Both of Philadelphia’s runs scored on Ryan Howard’s second home run of the season.
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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Townie813
