The Los Angeles Dodgers earned a thrilling victory over the Cincinnati Reds, but the main focus after the game was not only on the scoreboard.
A remarkable defensive moment from the young star on the Reds side forced even the opponent to show special respect.
In a game that remained intense at every moment, the Dodgers faced one of the situations where they appeared to have added an important run.
However, Teoscar Hernández, one of Los Angeles’ key hitters, was denied by the special arm of Elly De La Cruz.
The moment happened in the third inning when Hernández hit a hard ball deep into center field against a pitch from Nick Lodolo.
Teoscar Hernandez goes for the inside-the-park home run and Elly De La Cruz throws him out at the plate! pic.twitter.com/JgFlanuI6P
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) September 9, 2026
The ball went beyond Dane Myers’ reach and rolled toward the warning track, creating an opportunity for Hernández to run all four bases and complete an inside the park home run.
But as Hernández accelerated toward home plate, De La Cruz appeared at the perfect moment to deliver the decisive relay throw.
The Reds star’s throw reached approximately 105.3 mph, flying directly to the catcher’s position and allowing Cincinnati to erase Hernández at home plate.
That play not only saved an important run for the Reds but also created a moment that left the entire stadium amazed.
After the game, the player who was stopped by that defensive play was actually the one who gave the biggest praise to his opponent.
Teoscar Hernández admitted that he had never witnessed a defensive play that impressive throughout his career.
"Honestly, that was one of the best defensive plays I have ever seen. I thought I had a chance to complete the run home, but he made a perfect throw. He showed why he is one of the most special players in MLB right now. I can only give respect to that moment."
For De La Cruz, this game continued to confirm his complete value as a player.
Not only standing out with his defensive ability, the young Reds player also directly created an impact with his bat by hitting a two run home run against Tarik Skubal, helping Cincinnati tie the game.
Although the Reds could not secure the final victory, De La Cruz’s performance still became the biggest highlight.
The Cincinnati five tool star continues proving that he possesses rare qualities, from hitting power, running speed, to a powerful defensive arm.
For Hernández, being denied in that situation did not bring disappointment, but instead created admiration for a young talent making a strong impact in MLB.
In elite baseball, moments of competition always come with respect.
And this time, a beautiful throw from Elly De La Cruz forced the opponent on the other side to stop, recognize the greatness, and give him applause.
