Centerfielder steals ball from left fielder, a breakdown

May 4, 2021 1.4M views 6:37

What Happened

In a tense, tied game in the top of the sixth inning, Tampa Bay Rays centerfielder Kevin Kiermeier makes a bizarre play that sparks a heated exchange with his teammate, left fielder Randy Arozarena. With a runner on third base and the game knotted at 1-1, Arozarena gets a good jump on a fly ball headed his way. However, Kiermeier, known as one of the best defensive outfielders in baseball, aggressively cuts in front of Arozarena, claiming he can make the play. Kiermeier gets behind the ball and fires home, but his throw is offline and the runner scores, giving the Oakland Athletics the lead. A visibly frustrated Arozarena stands and watches, shaking his head at Kiermeier's brazen move. Kiermeier, unrepentant, expresses complete confidence in his abilities after the game. "I'm the best defensive outfielder in the game," he declares. "I always tell my outfielders, if I can get to it, it's mine." Kiermeier explains that he believed he could catch the ball and make a strong throw home, which he feels would have given the Rays the best chance to throw out the runner. However, he acknowledges that Arozarena was in the right position and that his interference may have "hindered" the play. Still, Kiermeier makes it clear he will continue to aggressively go after any ball he can reach, even if it means cutting off his teammates. Arozarena, for his part, is left shaking his head at Kiermeier's brash attitude. The two outfielders have differing views on the play, but Kiermeier's unapologetic confidence shines through. He vows to have a conversation with Arozarena to clear the air, while standing by his belief that he is the premier defensive outfielder in baseball and that any ball in his vicinity belongs to him. The bizarre sequence leaves both players and the coaching staff seemingly perplexed, with the Rays trailing late in a close game. Kiermeier's unique skill set and unwavering self-assurance have created a tense situation, one that the team will need to navigate as they look to secure a crucial victory.

Full Transcript

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in center field right here we got kevin

kiermeier

all the way over here we have randy

rosarina pay attention to the state farm

sign and where randy is and watch this