BOSTON — Hanley Ramirez was the hero in the Red Sox’s 5-4 win over the New York Yankees on Sunday, but he might not have had the chance if it wasn’t for Mookie Betts.
Ramirez hit two home runs, including the go-ahead shot, but Betts made two incredible catches in right field to keep the Yankees from doing any damage. The first came in the seventh inning to rob first baseman Mark Teixeira and keep catcher Gary Sanchez at first base, and the robbed Brett Gardner of a hit in the final frame.
The first fly ball Betts caught very possibly could have scored Sanchez from first, and the right fielder knew he had to make it.
“I think so. I think some bad things happen,” Betts said. “Definitely he scores, and maybe inside the park. I don’t know. But fortunately, it went in the glove.”
And, unsurprisingly, Red Sox manager John Farrell had high praise for Betts and his other two outfielders.
“Our outfield defense tonight was outstanding,” Farrell said. “Mookie makes the two plays that we see in the ninth and then in the seventh, (Chris Young) keeps Sanchez from extending to a double with a ball high off the wall, Jackie (Bradley Jr.) cuts a ball off in right-center field to keep (Didi) Gregorius at first base. The range of our outfielders is fantastic, and it was on display (Sunday night).”
Thumbnail photo via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
