Johan Rojas and J.T. Realmuto delivered an impressive double play during the Philadelphia Phillies’ series finale against the New York Yankees on Sunday. The highlight of the game was Realmuto’s remarkable tag at home plate.
In the third inning, with Cody Bellinger attempting to score on Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s flyout, Rojas made a 97.3 mph throw from left-center field. It appeared that the ball would go over Realmuto’s head, but he managed to leap and apply the tag in mid-air, securing an inning-ending double play.
“The throw and tag? That was two athletes right there, making a really good play,” said Phillies manager Rob Thomson.
Zack Wheeler, who started for the Phillies that day, witnessed Realmuto’s athleticism firsthand. “Rojas has a really strong arm… And J.T. — yeah, that’s an athletic play right there,” Wheeler remarked.
Despite Wheeler allowing four runs and walking two batters over 5 2/3 innings, he credited his defense for their support during his erratic performance.
Reflecting on Realmuto’s ability to make such plays, Thomson stated: “I don’t think I have [seen any other catcher do it like J.T.], no.”
The Yankees did not challenge Bellinger’s out call after umpire Sean Barber declared him out at home plate.
