Atlanta, GA - Michael Harris II, the Braves' young center fielder, etched his name into baseball highlight reels with a stunning catch on Thursday. In the sixth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies, with two runners on base, Phillies left fielder Max Kepler launched a deep fly ball to center field. It looked like a sure three-run homer, but Harris had other plans.
Sprinting back towards the wall, Harris leaped high above the fence, extending his glove just in time to snag the ball. The catch robbed Kepler of the home run and kept the Phillies' lead at a manageable margin. The Braves dugout erupted, and the home crowd went wild. Replays showed Harris fully extended, his glove barely reaching over the wall to make the grab.
"I just tried to get back there and make a play," Harris said after the game. "I knew it was going to be close, but I didn't want it to go over." The catch proved to be a turning point in the game, as the Braves rallied to victory. Harris's defensive prowess wasn't the only factor, but it undoubtedly provided a spark that energized the team and the fans. Baseball analysts are already calling it one of the best catches of the season. Harris's performance underscores his value to the Braves, both offensively and defensively.
Braves' Harris Jr. Steals Homer, Saves the Game!
Atlanta Braves center fielder Michael Harris II made a spectacular catch Thursday night, preventing a three-run homer by Philadelphia Phillies' Max Kepler. The amazing grab kept the game close and energized the Braves. Fans are calling it an early contender for catch of the year. The Braves went on to win the game, thanks in part to Harris's defensive heroics.