UPDATE: In a stunning display of power, Shea Langeliers of the Oakland Athletics has made history by becoming the fourth catcher ever to hit three home runs in a game twice. This milestone was achieved during a thrilling 16-7 victory over the Washington Nationals on September 26, 2023.
Langeliers, who led off for the first time in his career, wasted no time, sending a pitch from MacKenzie Gore over the fence to kick off the game. He followed up with another homer in the fifth inning against Orlando Ribalta and capped his remarkable night with a third leadoff homer in the seventh against Andry Lara. This performance places him alongside legends Johnny Bench, Gary Carter, and Travis d’Arnaud as the only catchers with multiple three-homer games.
In a season filled with personal achievements, Langeliers has now tallied 22 home runs. He also contributed a double in the eighth inning, finishing the game with an impressive 5 for 6 at the plate, including three RBIs and four runs scored. His total of 15 total bases ties for the most by any catcher in a game since 1900, matching records from legends Walker Cooper and Wes Westrum.
This extraordinary performance came just weeks after his teammate, Nick Kurtz, set the MLB record for total bases in a game with 19 during a matchup against the Houston Astros. Together, they have become the first teammates since 1900 to achieve games with 15 or more total bases in the same season, showcasing the Athletics’ offensive power.
The Athletics collectively amassed a season-high 24 hits in this game, marking a significant achievement as Brent Rooker and JJ Bleday each contributed four hits. This is the first time since 1979 that three players from the Athletics have recorded four or more hits in a single game.
As the team continues to make headlines, all eyes will be on Langeliers as he seeks to further cement his place in MLB history. Fans are eager to see what he will accomplish next in this record-breaking season.
