The highlight of John Lackey’s start against the Atlanta Braves on Saturday actually was his nifty glove work.
Lackey, who gave up five runs on 10 hits over 4 2/3 innings, made a sensational play in the third inning to squash Jordan Schafer’s bid for a bunt single.
Schafer dropped down a bunt with one out that squired past the mound and toward second base. Lackey chased after it and ultimately dropped to his knees while scooping the ball with his glove to first baseman Daniel Nava.
It initially looked like Lackey would have no chance to get Schafer at first base — hence the right-hander’s decision to use only his glove — but some quick thinking led to the second out of the inning.
Lackey could be seen smiling after the play while asking second baseman Dustin Pedroia, “You like that?”
Check out Lackey’s superb defense in the video below.
