San Francisco Giants’ Five Best Defensive Plays of 2015
By Johanna Bear
Hunter Pence’s Double Play
Aug 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco Giants right fielder Hunter Pence (8) hits a home run during the eleventh inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
No matter what Hunter Pence is doing, he does it with a style all his own. From his unorthodox approach at the plate to his unique swing, he always manages to stand out in a crowd. This play, which took place on July 7th, was a definitive example of Pence’s value to the Giants. It was his first game back after being on the DL, and he returned to the lineup without any rehab assignments. As this remarkable and improbable double play shows, he truly didn’t need one. Though two other Giants coverged on the ball to try to assist him, Pence needed no help in producing a highlight reel-worthy moment.
With his limbs flying and tongue sticking out, Pence somehow slid, made the catch, and then threw a bullet to Andrew Susac behind the plate to nab the speedy Curtis Granderson before he could cross home. It not only prevented a run from scoring, but also helped boost the Giants to their first win since June 28th against the Rockies, breaking a seven-game skid.
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Though Pence would later return to the DL with a strained oblique, this flash of brilliance woke up players and fans alike after an abysmal stretch of loses, and showed how much one player can ignite a club.
His presence in the lineup and on the field was greatly missed throughout the course of the season, but the opportunity for healing during the offseason means that more plays like these might be in the cards in 2016.
Next: Kelby Tomlinson's Error-Saving Gem