Bellinger makes up for mistake with key DP
LOS ANGELES -- From dejection to elation, Cody Bellinger experienced the highs and lows that come into play in a World Series game from one inning to the very next one.
The Dodgers outfielder atoned for a miscue on the bases in the ninth inning of Friday's Game 3 with a strong throw from center field that nabbed Ian Kinsler at home plate to complete an inning-ending double play in the 10th, preserving a tie in the eventual 3-2 victory in 18 innings.
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The win cut the Red Sox's advantage to two games to one.
"I was glad I was able to redeem myself," Bellinger said. "I wouldn't have been able to sleep after getting picked off right there. It was a mental mistake. I take full credit for that mistake."
Bellinger should also take credit for his outstanding play.
With one out in the 10th, Red Sox outfielder J.D. Martinez walked and was replaced by Kinsler. The veteran infielder advanced to third on a single by Brock Holt and then tried to score on Eduardo Nunez's fly to right-center field. Bellinger caught the ball and made the throw, and catcher Austin Barnes made a spectacular catch and tag slightly up the third-base line to complete the dazzling double play.
It was quite a turn of events for the National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player.
In the ninth, David Price picked off Bellinger, who is arguably the fastest runner on the team, as he tried to steal second. He was tagged out after a brief rundown for the second out of the frame.
The excited crowd at Dodger Stadium went silent after the putout, and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts shook his head in disbelief. When the next two batters, Yasmani Grandal and Chris Taylor, walked, it served to amplify Bellinger's mistake. James Dozier then fouled out to the catcher for the third out to send the game to the 10th.
"It feels better being 2-1 than 3-0, that's for sure, and we'll sleep better tonight," Bellinger said. "We'll get up in a few hours and get them tomorrow. It was nice to be home in front of our home crowd. It was unbelievable on their part, too. Just sticking it out. We had almost a full house in the 18th inning, which was cool to see."