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New pitcher Ian Kennedy was left in awe on Thursday when his
shortstop Alcides Escobar delivered a fantastic play in the
field that helped Kansas City clinch a 6-2 victory over the
Houston Astros.
In the sixth inning, Escobar sprinted to the outfield to make a
diving catch over his shoulder then spun around and fired to
first base for a double play.
"One of the best plays I’ve ever seen in person, probably,”
Kennedy told the Kansas City Star.
"That was awesome. That pumped me up."
Escobar also conceded that the play was "one of the best I
made."
Such highlights are a new sight for Kennedy, who signed a
five-year, $70 million dollar contract in the off-season to join
Kansas City after a stint with the San Diego Padres.
But for the Royals, defensive delights are a constant that have
helped them reach consecutive World Series.
In last season’s playoffs, outfielder Lorenzo Cain regularly
made tightrope catches that sucked the air out of opposing
batters.
Cain was not alone. In addition to Escobar, the Royals boast
tremendous fielders who serve as the lifeblood of their group.
Catcher Salvador Perez has won three straight Gold Gloves, while
first baseman Eric Hosmer is also a recognized defenseman.
In the playoffs, when the weather cools and offenses stall,
Kansas City truly separates itself with their gloves.
The Royals appear to have already reached mid-season form,
however, on their way to a 7-2 start.
It has not been lost on Kennedy, who has started 2-0.
"They can run down everything in the outfield (here),” Kennedy
said.
"The bloopers don’t fall. The hits in the gap are run down.
"It’s really fun to watch."
(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles. Editing by Patrick
Johnston)
[© 2016 Thomson Reuters. All rights
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