[teejers1]

The challenge was decided in a record eight seconds. Machado smoked the ball to Belt who stayed with it and got the lead runner. Getting the out at first was a bonus with Rogers almost getting smoked by Craw’s laser to first.

Some numbers…

None of the three SF singles in the 9th topped 80mph.  Machado’s double play ball left the bat at 112mph.  Only three Giants’ batted balls all season have exceeded 112.

One overlooked key was not using a PR for Belt in the ninth (another Kapler move that went against the grain but worked out nicely).  Had the Giants done so, it is unlikely Belt’s replacement at 1B in the bottom of the ninth would have fielded Machado’s shot (someday Belt has gotta win a Gold Glove - he is an outstanding first baseman).

+1.

And tip of the cap to Machado, who had a monster game:  2 dingers, almost a third, and then a 112 mph shot that Belt was able to turn into a DP, even after having a hard time corralling the bullet off the bat.  And Tatis is a special player, too, offensively and defensively - even though I don't want him to win MVP.  That Padres lineup looks awfully good, and I'm thinking Bochy may be managing them next season.

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I think Belt’s  elbow hit the mitt.  As did one of the announcers.

Agreed.  What I'm wondering is if the ball was even in the mitt when contact made.  I just haven't seen that in the films.

P.S.  I highly recommend MLB.com highlights for getting great recap of big plays in any game (and in remarkably high def, to boot).

[teejers1]

The challenge was decided in a record eight seconds. Machado smoked the ball to Belt who stayed with it and got the lead runner. Getting the out at first was a bonus with Rogers almost getting smoked by Craw’s laser to first.

Some numbers…

None of the three SF singles in the 9th topped 80mph.  Machado’s double play ball left the bat at 112mph.  Only three Giants’ batted balls all season have exceeded 112.

One overlooked key was not using a PR for Belt in the ninth (another Kapler move that went against the grain but worked out nicely).  Had the Giants done so, it is unlikely Belt’s replacement at 1B in the bottom of the ninth would have fielded Machado’s shot (someday Belt has gotta win a Gold Glove - he is an outstanding first baseman).

+1.

And tip of the cap to Machado, who had a monster game:  2 dingers, almost a third, and then a 112 mph shot that Belt was able to turn into a DP, even after having a hard time corralling the bullet off the bat.  And Tatis is a special player, too, offensively and defensively - even though I don't want him to win MVP.  That Padres lineup looks awfully good, and I'm thinking Bochy may be managing them next season.

---

I think Belt’s  elbow hit the mitt.  As did one of the announcers.

Agreed.  What I'm wondering is if the ball was even in the mitt when contact made.  I just haven't seen that in the films.

P.S.  I highly recommend MLB.com highlights for getting great recap of big plays in any game (and in remarkably high def, to boot).