Buck Martinez completes the double play with a broken leg, a breakdown

In a dramatic moment during a July 1985 matchup between the Seattle Mariners and an unknown opponent, veteran catcher Buck Martinez of the Mariners makes a remarkable play despite suffering a gruesome leg injury. With the game on the line and a runner on second base, the batter puts the ball in play, finding a hole in the defense. As the runner tries to advance, Martinez springs into action, blocking the plate and applying the tag to record the crucial out. However, the collision with the runner causes Martinez's right ankle to bend at an unnatural angle, resulting in a dislocated or broken leg. Undeterred, the injured Martinez gathers the ball and throws it from his seated position, attempting to throw out the runner advancing to third base. Though the throw goes awry, allowing the runner to reach third, Martinez's incredible determination and resilience have already captivated the crowd and his teammates. One spectator, identified as "Robert California," excitedly cheers on the play, while another fan in the stands scratches his head in bewilderment at the unfolding drama. The footage then shows the ball being thrown from the right side of the field and despite Martinez's limited mobility, he is able to secure the catch, blocking the plate and tagging out the runner attempting to score. "Don't worry about this, I'll be here," Martinez is heard saying, as he refuses to let the injury deter him from completing the double play. The commentators marvel at Martinez's toughness and grit, noting that he will likely need to sit out the rest of the season, but expressing confidence in his ability to return the following year. This remarkable display of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity has cemented Buck Martinez's place in baseball lore, as he demonstrates the true spirit of the game and the unwavering commitment of a veteran player who refuses to be sidelined by injury. The crowd's reaction and the commentators' awe-struck remarks further underscore the significance of this unforgettable moment in sports history.