The Philadelphia Phillies secured a thrilling victory over the Atlanta Braves with a remarkable play by Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos. Initially, it seemed like Castellanos made a mistake that could cost his team the game, but his actions ended up being showcased on the highlight reel.
In the bottom of the ninth inning, with the score tied at 4-4 and a runner on third base, Ronald Acuña Jr. hit a foul ball deep down the right field line at Truist Park. Normally, an outfielder would let the ball drop to avoid the runner on third from tagging up and scoring. However, Castellanos had a different approach. He positioned himself under the foul ball and made the catch while Luke Williams sprinted for home. Castellanos then made a perfect throw to prevent Williams from scoring.
Nick Castellanos the man that you are!!!! pic.twitter.com/xWXjhJH84n
– Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) September 20, 2023
During the television broadcast, Phillies color commentator John could be heard yelling, “Let it go! Let it go! No! Yes!”
Ultimately, the Phillies won the game 6-5 in 10 innings. Castellanos later revealed in his postgame press conference that he had a hunch guiding him during the play.
“I don’t know,” Castellanos said. “I thought I was gonna drop it, and at the last minute, a voice popped into my head and said, ‘Catch it, and throw him out.'”
Castellanos, along with Bryson Stott’s timely hitting, helped the Phillies maintain their 3.5-game lead in the NL Wild Card race.
