Brewers Execute MLB’s First Ever 8-6-2 Double Play in Playoff History

The Milwaukee Brewers made history during Game 1 of the National League Championship Series by executing the first-ever 8-6-2 double play in Major League Baseball playoff history. This remarkable play occurred against the Los Angeles Dodgers and was a pivotal moment in the tightly contested game.

Historic Double Play in MLB Playoffs

During the fourth inning, with the bases loaded and one out, a deep fly ball hit by Max Muncy set the stage for a unique sequence of events. The game was scoreless at that point. Muncy’s ball was caught by Brewers outfielder Sal Frelick, but it initially bounced off his glove and struck the outfield wall before returning to his glove.

Key Players Involved

• Sal Frelick: Outfielder who tracked the fly ball.
• Joey Ortiz: Shortstop who received the throw and executed a crucial out at home plate.
• William Contreras: Catcher who made the final out at home base.
• Teoscar Hernandez: Dodgers runner who made the critical baserunning mistake.
• Max Muncy: Batter whose hit led to the double play.

The Flow of the Play

As Frelick caught the ball, Dodgers runners believed it had been caught cleanly and tagged up. This led Hernandez to make a late decision to advance home. Ortiz accurately threw to Contreras, resulting in Hernandez’s out at the plate.

After the out, Contreras touched third base to force out Will Smith, who had retreated to second base believing it was a routine sacrifice fly play. Smith later commented on his confusion during the play.

Reactions and Analysis

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts labeled Hernandez’s decision as a “brain fart,” while Ortiz noted that he relied on communication from teammate Brice Turang to make the play at home plate. Brewers manager Pat Murphy remarked on Frelick’s frustration about not making the catch, highlighting the unique nature of the play.

Official scorer Tim O’Driscoll confirmed that the play was classified as Muncy grounding into a double play, despite originating a significant distance from the plate.

Significance of the Play

This double play marks an extraordinary moment in MLB history. Notably, the last recorded 8-6-2 double play during the regular season was in 2004 and ended with a tag at home plate.

Brewers designated hitter Christian Yelich reflected on the bizarre nature of the play, suggesting it was pivotal in creating an opportunity for the team.

The Brewers will continue to build on this historic moment as they compete in the postseason, looking to capitalize on their newfound momentum.