ESPN report: Seattle Mariners All-Star pulls off sick barehanded spinning
Seattle Mariners All-Star Pulls Off Stunning Barehanded Spinning Play
SEATTLE, WA – The Seattle Mariners’ faithful were treated to a dazzling display of defensive wizardry on Thursday night as All-Star shortstop J.P. Crawford pulled off a highlight-reel play that left fans and players alike in awe. The Mariners, who are in the thick of a postseason race, have leaned heavily on their defense, and Crawford’s stunning barehanded, spinning play served as a reminder of why he is one of the premier defensive players in the game today.
The play occurred in the top of the sixth inning, with the Mariners clinging to a narrow 3-2 lead against the Houston Astros. With two outs and a runner on first, Astros’ speedy outfielder Kyle Tucker hit a slow chopper toward the hole between third and short. Off the bat, it seemed like a routine infield single that would advance the runner into scoring position, potentially setting up the Astros to tie or take the lead.
But J.P. Crawford had other plans.
Charging in from his position deep in the hole, Crawford showed off his exceptional instincts and athleticism. Recognizing that he wouldn’t have time to glove the ball and still make a throw to first, he made a split-second decision to go barehanded. With the runner sprinting down the line, Crawford timed his approach perfectly, scooping the ball with his right hand just as it took its final bounce.
In one fluid motion, Crawford planted his left foot, began spinning counterclockwise, and fired a laser to first base. The throw was low but perfectly accurate, and first baseman Ty France made a slick pick to record the out. The crowd at T-Mobile Park erupted as the Mariners sprinted off the field, with Crawford’s teammates surrounding him in celebration.
The play not only ended the inning but also preserved the Mariners’ lead, which they would go on to maintain for the remainder of the game. Seattle’s 3-2 victory was pivotal in their playoff chase, and Crawford’s defensive gem was the game’s defining moment.
“That’s one of the best plays I’ve ever seen,” Mariners manager Scott Servais said in his postgame press conference. “J.P. just has a knack for making the impossible look routine. His ability to read the ball, the awareness to go barehanded, and then to make that kind of throw on the run—it’s just incredible. Plays like that are why he’s an All-Star.”
Crawford, who has built a reputation as one of the best defensive shortstops in the league, was modest when reflecting on the play. “It was just instinct,” he said. “I knew I didn’t have much time, so I just went for it. We’re in a tight race right now, and every out counts. I’m just glad I could make the play for my team.”
The Mariners have relied on their defense throughout the season, with Crawford being a linchpin up the middle. His ability to make difficult plays look easy has been a hallmark of his game, and Thursday night’s play was a prime example of why he was selected for his second All-Star game earlier this year.
As the Mariners continue their push for a postseason berth, Crawford’s leadership and defensive prowess will be crucial. His highlight-reel play is sure to be replayed for years to come, not only in Seattle but across the baseball world.
“You can’t say enough about what J.P. brings to this team,” said France, who was on the receiving end of the throw. “He’s got great hands, a strong arm, and the confidence to make those kinds of plays. When you see a play like that, it fires everyone up.”
The Mariners’ victory moved them to within striking distance of the AL West lead, and with Crawford anchoring their defense, they are poised to make a serious run at their first postseason appearance since 2001. Fans at T-Mobile Park left the stadium buzzing, knowing they had witnessed a play that would go down in Mariners’ lore.
As the postseason race heats up, J.P. Crawford’s barehanded, spinning play will serve as a reminder of the kind of game-changing defense that could propel the Mariners to October glory.
