Jacob Young stars in spectacular catches that seal the Nationals’ victory
The Washington Nationals’ center fielder, Jacob Young, became the key figure in Sunday’s game, thanks to two amazing catches that frustrated the New York Mets and secured the victory for his team.
Young showcased his defensive prowess exceptionally, first robbing Brett Baty of a potential extra-base hit in the fifth inning, and then, in the ninth, denying Francisco Álvarez a home run that would have tied the game.
With the Mets down 3-1, Baty hit a long fly ball to center field against Jake Irvin. Young, running at full speed, found himself in a difficult situation, but managed to make an incredible catch.
After jumping near the fence, the ball slipped from his glove when it hit the fence. However, the ball never touched the wall. Young, in an act of reflexes and skill, propelled it with his foot, “hacky-sack” style, and finally caught it to complete a spectacular play.
The umpires immediately declared Baty out, who had already advanced to second base.
In the ninth inning, Álvarez hit a deep fly ball to center-left field. Young, once again, ran and jumped, this time catching the ball cleanly at the top of the fence, securing the Nationals’ victory with a score of 3-2.
Later, the Mets, who have suffered 11 losses in the last 15 games, tied with the Cincinnati Reds for the last National League wild card spot, after the Reds beat the Chicago Cubs, 1-0.
