WASHINGTON — The Washington Nationals edged out a victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks with a thrilling defensive play to seal a 4-3 win on Saturday.
In a tense moment, Riley Adams threw out Alek Thomas as he attempted to steal second base for the final out. Thomas had just managed an RBI single, narrowing the Nationals’ lead to just one run.
Dispatching the hopes of Arizona, Tim Tawa, who had marked his major league debut by singling in his first at-bat, flied out. Nationals’ pitcher Kyle Finnegan then delivered a 96.5 mph fastball outside, directed at Geraldo Perdomo.
Back-up catcher Adams, stepping in for Keibert Ruiz, fired the ball to shortstop CJ Abrams at second base. With sharp precision, Abrams reached up for the high throw and quickly tagged Thomas as he attempted to slide to safety.
“They’re an aggressive team,” noted Adams. “They look for opportunities like that to capitalize. You need to stay alert and ready for anything.” The out call by Umpire Will Little was reviewed and confirmed.
Abrams reflected on the play: “It was all about beating the hand to the bag. Riley launched a missile, which definitely helped, making it easier to execute the quick tag.”
Despite going 0 for 3 with three strikeouts during the game, Adams received commendation from Dave Martinez, the Nationals’ manager.
“He really stepped up when it mattered most,” Martinez stated. “That throw was outstanding; fast, accurate, right on the money. The tag by CJ was quick and decisive. Both players executed perfectly.” This remarkable game-ending tagged out secured the Nationals’ victory with a caught stealing for just the fourth time in the history of the franchise.
Adams acknowledged the effort and preparation that went into the play, discussing his extensive practice sessions with catching coach Henry Blanco.
“I’m glad I could deliver when it counted,” Adams remarked. Although he has appeared in only two games this season and has yet to get a hit, Adams is focusing on his primary role.
“Being a backup catcher means focusing on your defensive duties,” Martinez explained. “Catching, making good decisions, and seizing opportunities to throw out runners. If you manage to hit, it’s a bonus.”