Nico Hoerner’s Spectacular Defensive Play for Chicago Cubs

Chicago Cubs’ standout Nico Hoerner delivered an impressive baseball play reminiscent of basketball moves, captivating fans with his defensive skills. During the top of the fifth inning in the Cubs’ Saturday game against the Houston Astros at Wrigley Field, Hoerner executed an extraordinary maneuver, despite the Cubs’ 3-0 loss.

The play began when Astros catcher César Salazar attempted a bunt single, targeting Cubs pitcher Colin Rea’s opening pitch of the inning. Hoerner, a skilled and twice-honored Gold Glove recipient, skillfully approached the ball. Salazar’s quick pace left Hoerner with limited choices upon his bare-handed pickup.

In one swift motion, the 29-year-old Hoerner dragged his right leg, aligning his body to deliver the baseball between his legs toward first base. First baseman Michael Busch skillfully snatched the impressive throw, tagging Salazar out and completing the play.

“They say necessity is the mother of invention.”

Hoerner’s through-the-legs throw drew comparisons to similar plays by New York Mets pitcher Bartolo Colon and Chicago White Sox’s Mark Buehrle. Memorable moments from both players included Colon’s behind-the-back flip and Buehrle’s through-the-legs glove toss. These past plays have earned a spot on highlight reels, and Hoerner’s feat joins them.

While Hoerner’s play stands out, the Cubs struggled in the game. They currently hold a record of 29-23 and aim to perform better against the Astros, who have a record of 22-31, in the series’ concluding game on Sunday at 2:20 p.m. ET.

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Ryan Canfield contributes as a digital production assistant for Fox News Digital.