After 1,347 games, Bourjos at 2B -- and shines

April 23rd, 2019

Things can get weird when games go 14 innings. In the Angels' 4-3 loss against the Yankees on Monday night, that meant playing the infield for the first time in his professional career -- and making a highlight-reel play at second base.

Bourjos, who had never played any position other than the outfield in the Major or Minor Leagues -- that's 1,347 games over 13-plus seasons since 2006 -- made his infield debut as the Halos' second baseman in the 13th inning at Angel Stadium.

And as so often seems to happen in baseball, the ball found Bourjos, when Brett Gardner slashed a ground ball into the hole between second and first in the top of the 13th. Bourjos ranged to his left and made a diving stop on the outfield grass, then made the throw to first from his knees just in time to get the speedy Gardner.

"You know, I didn't have to think about it,” Bourjos said after the game. “I think if it was hit right at me, I would've booted it. That way it was a reaction and I could knock it down and get it over there. I was kind of surprised. I don't know."

Bourjos had to play the infield because of an injury to third baseman Zack Cozart, who hurt his head and neck after awkwardly sliding into DJ LeMahieu's leg. The Angels were out of position players, so they had to give up the designated hitter and move Bourjos from the DH spot into the field. Bourjos took over at second base, and Tommy La Stella moved from second to third.