Kiermaier robs Betts on first pitch of opener

ST. PETERSBURG -- All it took was one pitch for Kevin Kiermaier to remind everyone why he's known as "The Outlaw." The center fielder committed robbery from the get-go Thursday, setting up the Rays' 6-4, come-from-behind victory over the Red Sox.
Rays starter Chris Archer delivered a 93.1 mph four-seamer on the first pitch of Opening Day to Mookie Betts. The Red Sox leadoff hitter connected, sending a drive to the deepest part of Tropicana Field.
The Platinum Glove-winning Kiermaier got a good jump and finished with a leaping grab at the wall, turning what surely would have been extra bases into the first out of the season. He covered 129 feet and had a sprint speed of 30.2 mph, per Statcast™.

"I mean, I was like, 'What's new?'" Betts said. "I think I've hit three or four balls out in that area, and I think it's gotten caught every time. Maybe I should try hitting it somewhere else."