UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the Los Angeles Angels pulled off a rare triple play during their 7-6 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers on August 15, 2023. This remarkable feat came in the sixth inning, marking just the eighth triple play in Angels history and leaving fans in awe.
Shortstop Zach Neto was at the center of the action, executing two putouts and an assist after Shohei Ohtani hit a line drive right to him behind second base. “I think that was more exciting than hitting two home runs yesterday,” Neto expressed, recalling the electrifying moment.
With Dodgers players Miguel Rojas on second and Dalton Rushing on first, Ohtani’s drive came screaming up the middle, but Neto was ready. He caught the ball and swiftly stepped on second base to double up Rojas before firing to first to tag out Rushing, who had overcommitted. “I caught the ball, stepped on second, and as I was looking to first, I saw the guy kind of still puzzled,” Neto recounted.
The play was a bright spot in a challenging season for the Angels, who have now dominated the Freeway Series, winning all five matchups against the defending World Series champions. It also added pressure to a struggling Dodgers team that has now lost three consecutive games and finds themselves tied for first place in the NL West with the San Diego Padres.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the rarity of the moment, stating, “It was just one of those things that it was right at Neto.” While frustration loomed in the Dodgers’ clubhouse, Rushing sustained a minor injury but remained in the game after a hard fall while trying to avoid the tag.
Despite the setback, Ohtani, a three-time MVP, continued to battle, hitting a tiebreaking homer in the ninth inning, his 43rd of the season. However, the Angels fought back to tie the game on Nolan Schanuel’s sacrifice fly and ultimately secured the win with Jo Adell’s high-chopping single in the tenth.
Looking ahead, Neto is prepared for the challenge of facing Ohtani, who is set to pitch for the Dodgers on August 16. “I definitely (ticked) him off, but that’s OK,” Neto said with a grin. “I’ve got to face him tomorrow on the mound, so just enjoy this one for a couple more hours, then come in tomorrow ready to go.”
This thrilling game not only showcased Neto’s defensive brilliance but also highlighted the emotional rollercoaster of baseball, where one moment can change everything. Fans are eager to see how the teams respond in their next encounter.
