Verdugo Walks It Off, But Harris’ Jaw-Dropping Catch Steals the Show
When Alex Verdugo said “Awesome” after the Braves’ thrilling 4-3 walk-off win over the Nationals on Monday night, he wasn’t talking about his own game-winning hit — he was hyping up Michael Harris II’s spectacular fourth-inning catch.
“Man, I’m not even surprised anymore,” Verdugo said. “His range, his reads — he’s just so much fun to watch out there.”
While the Braves had to grind through a tense ninth inning — including a pair of hits allowed by closer Raisel Iglesias and a rare throwing error by defensive standout Nick Allen — Verdugo ultimately sealed the deal with a clutch single up the middle off Andrew Chafin. But the most unforgettable moment of the night came earlier.
In the fourth inning, Harris made a jaw-dropping catch to rob Luis García Jr. of extra bases. The 24-year-old sprinted 74 feet, tracked the 100.4 mph line drive with his back to the plate, and snagged it just before slamming into the wall — saving a run and stunning everyone, including pitcher Grant Holmes.
“I don’t even have words,” Holmes said. “That was one of the best catches I’ve ever seen — and it meant even more because it came during my inning.”
Manager Brian Snitker praised Harris’ body control and focus, noting how effortlessly he tracked the ball. “His eyes don’t bounce. The coordination to make that kind of catch is just unreal,” he said.
First baseman Matt Olson, clearly impressed, flashed a No. 1 as Harris jogged in. “I think he said, ‘That was crazy,’” Harris laughed. “That might be one of my best. It takes a lot to impress Matt, so that felt good.”
The catch helped Holmes settle in, allowing just two more hits over 6 1/3 innings. It also helped stop Washington’s momentum and give the Braves a much-needed energy boost after a tough weekend in Pittsburgh.
Offensively, Harris, Verdugo, and Marcell Ozuna — all struggling over the past two weeks — each delivered two-hit performances. Ozuna even added a homer, part of a two-run third inning that included four straight two-out hits.
Snitker was pleased with the turnaround. “They’ll go to bed feeling good tonight — and wake up ready to go again tomorrow.”
And if they’re lucky, Harris and Holmes might just dream about that catch — a play that might go down as one of the best of the season.
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