Cubs use wild 1-3-2 putout to escape bases loaded jam
Facing a bases loaded situation with only one out in the eighth inning, the Chicago Cubs knew they needed a strikeout, double play or fortunate bounce to have any chance of escaping with the game still tied.
As things would turn out, the Cubs ended up getting a fortunate deflection on a smash by 2015 Home Run Derby champion Todd Frazier, but it almost came at the expense of reliever Hector Rondon’s health.
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On a 2-2 pitch from the hard-throwing reliever, Frazier hit a rocket one-hopper back through the box that smashed off the right leg of Rondon and shot into the air. At first look, it actually appeared to be a complete disaster for Chicago. Not only because their pitcher had just been struck hard, but also because the baseball was ticketed for second baseman Addison Russell, who was pinching Frazier up the middle.
If the ball gets through cleanly, it’s likely a quick 4-6-3 inning-ending double play. As it was, a double play was definitely out of the picture, and based on the deflection the play seemed destined to give Cincinnati at least a one-run advantage.
That’s where the good fortune comes in. Rather than deflect through the large opening on the right side of the infield or into foul territory, it caromed perfectly to first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who was immediately ready to fire home for the old 1-3-2 force play.
We can assure you that’s not one of the plays the Cubs worked on at spring training. Everything about it was reaction, instincts and pure luck, and that includes Rondon escaping without injury. He was even left in to face Jay Bruce and ended up getting the strikeout to end the rally.
His reward for enduring all of that?
Indeed, a victory.
The Cubs managed to score one run in the ninth against Aroldis Chapman to win the game 6-5, to split the day-night doubleheader and to split the four-game series.
That’s a bruise and ice pack well earned. Now go enjoy that day off, Hector.
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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
