Here's how Billy Hamilton's unique speed can change a game

When is a single worth more than one base? When it's a Billy Hamilton single.

The Reds center fielder led off the fifth inning of Wednesday's game against the Cardinals with a line-drive base hit to left off of Shelby Miller, and then it was off to the races.

With Brandon Phillips batting, Hamilton stole second:

Phillips eventually flied out, but Hamilton tagged up and took third base on the play:

Joey Votto walked, presumably giving Billy Hamilton a moment to recharge his batteries. Then Jay Bruce popped to right field. Shallow right field. Shallow enough that nearly every other player in the Majors would retreat to third base:

Hamilton finished the day 3-for-4 with a walk, two runs, a triple and two steals.