Socratic method: Brito uses legs for 1st hit

PHOENIX -- D-backs rookie outfielder Socrates Brito can now check a few items off of his list of "firsts."

Brito notched his first hit, a pinch-hit single, in his first Major League at-bat in the bottom of the third inning of Tuesday's 6-2 loss to the Giants.

The ball was quickly secured by the Arizona coaching staff and will eventually rest at Brito's mother's home in the Dominican Republic. For now, the ball sits securely in a square display case in the corner locker he shares with fellow rookie Peter O'Brien.

"I'm sad we lost, but I'm very happy to fulfil a lifelong dream and play in the Major Leagues," Brito said. "Not everybody makes it to this level, and I realize that. In that way, I am very proud."

The hit will look like a line drive off Giants starter Tim Hudson in the box score, but it was actually a high chopper to Giants first baseman Brandon Belt. Brito beat out the throw to Hudson who was charging toward first base.

"I'm just here to keep doing what I'm doing and not try to do too much," Brito said. "It's important for me to make a good impression while I am here."

The D-backs hope Brito, who was promoted from Double-A earlier in the day, will push for a starting job in the outfield next spring.

But first things first. Another milestone or two could be on the horizon for Brito.

"Socrates is a good example of player development," D-backs manager Chip Hale said. "If you talk to guys who have seen him for the last three years, he just keeps getting better and better. He gets into a great competition with our guys next spring with the guys we have, he's going to be pushing some people. Who knows? Against [Giants starter] Chris Heston tomorrow, maybe he gets a start."