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McCarthy's Rare Unassisted Double Play Lifts Rockies Past Pirates

ESPN MLB •
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Colorado Rockies outfielder Jake McCarthy turned heads Wednesday night by recording the first unassisted double play by an outfielder in Major League Baseball since 2015. The defensive gem came against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the first inning, helping spark a 10-4 victory for Colorado.

McCarthy charged hard on a sinking line drive off the bat of Bryan Reynolds, making a spectacular catch on the run for the second out. With Pirates baserunner Oneil Cruz positioned near third base, McCarthy alertly jogged toward the infield and stepped on second base to complete the rare double play.

According to ESPN Research, McCarthy became the first outfielder to accomplish this feat since Jake Marisnick against the Angels in 2015. The play showcased McCarthy's baseball instincts and defensive awareness, providing a memorable moment in what became a comfortable win for the Rockies.

Unassisted double plays by outfielders are extremely uncommon due to the positioning and timing required. McCarthy's heads-up play not only prevented potential scoring opportunities but also energized his team en route to the series-opening victory.