In a captivating display at Oracle Park, Patrick Bailey sealed the Giants’ triumphant 4-3 victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks. However, this wasn’t your typical walk-off homer or game-winning hit; it was an extraordinary walk-off pick-off that stole the show.
During the ninth inning with two outs, Bailey astutely observed Geraldo Perdomo, the Diamondbacks’ shortstop, dancing too far off first base. Without hesitation, he unleashed a laser-accurate throw to LaMonte Wade Jr., who swiftly applied the tag to secure the final out. MLB statistician Sarah Langs was quick to point out that this was the swiftest pop time to first base ever recorded in the Statcast era.
It was another moment that showcased Bailey’s phenomenal arm strength. Interestingly, he wasn’t even the starting catcher in the game. Instead, he entered the field as a defensive replacement for Blake Sabol during the eighth inning. However, his impact was immediate as he thwarted Jace Peterson, the Diamondbacks’ trade-deadline acquisition, in his attempt to steal second base. This season alone, Bailey has impressively thrown out 19 runners attempting to steal bases.
One would assume that baserunners should have learned their lesson by now, but Bailey’s prowess seems to strike fear in their hearts. Reflecting on this, San Francisco shortstop Brandon Crawford eloquently stated on NBC Sports Bay Area’s “Giants Postgame Live” after the triumph, “They shouldn’t, but I hope they do.”
Indeed, B-Craw’s sentiment resonates profoundly with Patrick Bailey exceptional talent on display. With such a formidable presence behind the plate, opponents would be wise to think twice before challenging him.
