In the world of baseball, there are moments that can send chills down your spine, and the bottom of the ninth inning in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series was one of those moments. In this exhilarating breakdown, we’ll delve into the heart-pounding events that unfolded, brought to you by DraftKings.
The Battle Begins
The stage was set, with the game tied at one run apiece, and the Philadelphia Phillies had the opportunity to push it to extras. The man on the mound was Craig Kimbrel, and the first pitch was nothing short of a doozy. A pitch that appeared to be a strike wasn’t called as one, leaving fans wondering. This was just the beginning of a string of pivotal moments.
Controversial Calls
The missed call on that first pitch wasn’t an isolated incident. In the previous inning, a pitch at a similar height had been thrown by the Diamondbacks’ pitcher, and it too was not called a strike. It was evident that the strike zone was a point of contention for both teams. Notably, a 92 mph pitch had been called a strike earlier, while a 97 mph pitch was ruled a ball. Inconsistencies in umpire decisions added to the drama of the game.
The Drama Unfolds
With the count at 3-0, the tension was palpable. A pitch was yanked high and inside, but it was called a strike, leaving everyone on edge. Kimbrel delivered a 96 mph fastball that looked ripe for a hit, but it was surprisingly not put in play. It was a missed opportunity for the Phillies, and the game hung in the balance.
A Stolen Base and Infield Drama
With a runner on first and the game on the line, the runner took off, stealing second base. The infield had to play in to prevent the run from scoring at home. A hit could decide the game, and the pressure was on.
The Umpire’s Controversial Decision
Then came a pivotal moment, a call that could have defined the game. A pitch that appeared to be a swing was not called by the umpire, leaving the players and fans in disbelief. The decision was a questionable one, and it could have altered the outcome of the game significantly.
The Defensive Heroics
Trey Turner’s defensive play at shortstop became the game-changer. He stopped the ball, fired home, and made a crucial play to get the runner out at the plate. It was a spectacular play that saved the Phillies from an imminent loss.
The Tense At-Bat
With the bases loaded, Ketel Marte stepped up to the plate. The tension was palpable, and it was clear he was looking for a fastball. Kimbrel delivered, but it wasn’t where he intended it to be. Marte made his move, and the ball found a gap, resulting in a walk-off single.
Victory and Redemption
The Arizona Diamondbacks erupted with joy, as this victory breathed new life into the series. It was a dramatic ending, and the fans couldn’t have asked for more.
Conclusion
In the world of baseball, it’s moments like these that remind us why we love the game. This breakdown of the bottom of the ninth inning in Game 3 of the NLCS, brought to you by DraftKings, showcased the drama, the tension, and the incredible athleticism that make baseball such an electrifying sport. Thanks to the umpires for keeping it interesting and to the Diamondbacks for their resilience and never-say-die spirit.
