Francisco Lindor's defensive clinic could also offer lessons on sneakily effective sliding techniques
In Francisco Lindor, the Indians have one of the most gifted glovesmiths in the game today, doing things at shortstop that most players dream about. Range, a killer throwing arm, he has it all.
But he has more than defense in his repertoire, something he put on full display during Monday night's 6-2 loss to the Astros at Progressive Field. After lacing a ball in the gap, Lindor had to hustle to second in pursuit of a double. The ball beat him to the bag, but Lindor vanquished the ball, and Jose Altuve's tag attempt:
After a replay review, Lindor was ultimately ruled safe at second after that special effort.
If you're sitting there thinking to yourself, "Hmm, I think I've seen Lindor do that before ... " you'd be absolutely correct, as it also works at home plate:
He's now utilized this skill to perfection at least three times:
He's truly in a realm all his own out there.