Rays’ Chandler Simpson Crashes Face First Into Wall While Making Incredible World Series Catch Against Brewers
A catch at Tropicana Field
Frelick drove a sharp line drive toward left field during the second inning at Tropicana Field. Simpson sprinted after it, leapt, and caught the ball before colliding face first with the wall.
He kept possession and returned the ball to the infield. Mitchell did not advance to second base, and the Rays avoided a potential run and an early boost for Milwaukee.
Rays face a series deficit
Tampa Bay came into Game 3 down two games to none. Simpson, a second-year outfielder, had gone three for eight with one RBI and two strikeouts in the series.
The Rays could use a spark as they try to recover, and the catch offered a moment of defensive brilliance. Tampa Bay and Milwaukee had both entered the World Series as postseason No. 1 seeds after receiving byes into the Division Series.
Close results in first games
Milwaukee won Game 1 by a score of 3-2, then took Game 2, 5-4. Both contests were decided by one run. Frelick’s hit gave Simpson a chance to make a play that limited the damage in Game 3. The catch came as the Rays tried to change the course of the series.
Key points
- Simpson caught Frelick’s drive in the second inning of Game 3.
- He hit the wall face first but held onto the ball.
- The play kept Garrett Mitchell from advancing to second base.
- Milwaukee had won the first two games, 3-2 and 5-4.