Atlanta Braves Pull off Rare Triple Play in Victory against Boston Red Sox
In a thrilling game on Tuesday night, the Atlanta Braves made history by turning a triple play against the Boston Red Sox. This remarkable feat marks the first triple play of the season in the major leagues and only the second time an 8-3-5 triple play has ever been accomplished in MLB history.
The last time an 8-3-5 triple play occurred was way back in 1884, when the Boston Beaneaters executed it against the Providence Grays. Fast forward 137 years, and the Atlanta Braves replicated this extraordinary play at Fenway Park.
The rare triple play unfolded during the third inning of the game. Center fielder Michael Harris II made an incredible catch on a shallow fly ball, then swiftly threw the ball to first baseman Matt Olson to eliminate Adam Duvall. However, the excitement did not end there. Alert and quick-thinking, Olson fired the ball to third base, successfully tagging out Masataka Yoshida, who had unwisely attempted to advance on Duvall’s mistake.
Following the game, Duvall openly admitted his error but maintained a lighthearted perspective, jokingly referring to it as a risk/reward situation that simply did not go his way. Nevertheless, this triple play holds significance for the Braves, as their last triple play took place in 2004 against the San Diego Padres.
Surprisingly, the Boston Red Sox also have recent memories of their own triple play. Their most recent one occurred in 2017 against the Baltimore Orioles. Unfortunately for the Red Sox, this triple play abruptly ended what had initially been a promising inning, beginning with consecutive singles by Yoshida and Duvall.
The Atlanta Braves’ stunning triple play and their historic achievement leave fans in awe. This remarkable defensive feat serves as a testament to the team’s exceptional agility, coordination, and quick thinking on the field. As the 2021 MLB season progresses, it will be exciting to see if any other teams can match or surpass this incredible display of baseball prowess.
“Travel aficionado. Incurable bacon specialist. Tv evangelist. Wannabe internet enthusiast. Typical creator.”