The Detroit Tigers appeared to be on the verge of scoring their first run in Game 2 of the ALDS against the Cleveland Guardians in the eighth inning. However, a spectacular diving catch by left fielder Steven Kwan dashed their hopes of taking the lead.
With runners on first and second base and two outs, Matt Vierling hit a double followed by an intentional walk to Riley Greene. Guardians’ manager Stephen Vogt decided to bring in closer Emmanuel Clase to replace Hunter Gaddis. Clase seemed to have given up a hit to Wenceel Pérez on a sinking liner, which would have resulted in the game’s first run.
But then, Kwan made a game-changing play.
Initially ruled as an out on the field, the Tigers promptly challenged the call. Umpires reviewed the play to determine if the ball had touched the grass before landing in Kwan’s glove.
While the front angle footage from TBS cameras suggested that the ball may have bounced off the turf, a side angle revealed that it had deflected off the edge of Kwan’s glove before being secured in the pocket.
Ultimately, the call stood, and the score remained deadlocked at 0-0.
Despite this setback, the Tigers ultimately emerged victorious with a 3-0 win, courtesy of Kerry Carpenter’s three-run homer in the ninth inning off Clase. The series is now tied at 1-1 as it shifts to Detroit for Game 3.