Chicago Cubs star Nico Hoerner pulled off an impressive basketball-like move to make an outstanding play on a bunt during their 3-0 loss to the Houston Astros.
In the fifth inning of Saturday’s game at Wrigley Field, Hoerner demonstrated his defensive skills. The Astros’ catcher, César Salazar, attempted a bunt single against Cubs pitcher Colin Rea on the first pitch of the inning.
Hoerner, a two-time Gold Glove recipient, charged toward Salazar’s bunt. With Salazar’s speed, Hoerner had limited options after picking up the ball barehanded.
“They say necessity is the mother of invention.”
In a fluid motion, the 29-year-old dragged his right leg to create an angle and successfully threw the ball between his legs to first base. First baseman Michael Busch completed the play by catching Hoerner’s striking throw, getting Salazar out.
Hoerner’s throw was reminiscent of famed plays by New York Mets pitcher Bartolo Colon and Chicago White Sox’s Mark Buehrle. Colon once fielded a weak hit by Miami Marlins’ Justin Bour and casually flipped the ball behind his back for an out. Buehrle, after getting hit by a comebacker, managed a through-the-legs throw while in foul territory.
Despite Hoerner’s remarkable play, the Cubs had few highlights during their defeat by the Astros. The team, standing at 29-23, will seek recovery in the final game of the series on Sunday, aiming to avoid a series sweep.
Note: Ryan Canfield is a digital production assistant for Fox News Digital.
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