Kevin Pillar sells out to make yet another incredible diving catch
If it seemed like Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar was adding another highlight to the reel every day in April, that’s because he was.
Pillar started the season with a series of memorable web gems that were absolutely mind-blowing. He then continued to sprinkle them in at various points throughout the summer as well. As we saw on Friday though, he may have saved the best for last.
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During the Blue Jays 8-4 against the Rays, Pillar struck a Superman pose, going full extension to rob Luke Maile of extra bases with a simply sensational diving catch.
As good as that looked at real speed, it’s absolutely breathtaking in slow motion. You’ll see great plays, but you won’t see many better than that.
If you’re thinking about the injury risk involved, don’t bother. Though the Blue Jays are safely in the postseason, they still have home-field advantage to play in the American League. Pillar’s efforts were definitely needed, but you also know his effort wouldn’t have changed regardless of the standings. As long as he’s on the field, he’s playing full steam ahead.
It’s that effort level than has helped establish Pillar as one of the best defenders in the game, and one of the most entertaining to watch.
Pillar is currently plus-21 in defensive runs saved, which ranks fourth among MLB outfielder. Kevin Kiermaier, who mans center field on a full-time basis at Tropicana Field, leads baseball at an absurd plus-41. He’s been lights out this season, as have Ender Inciarte and Jason Heyward, who come in at plus 29 and plus-24 respectively.
Pillar leads the way in terms highlight plays though, and this is another one fans will be talking about for a long time.
Our hats are off to Toronto’s Superman.
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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