Saladino gloves second-inning trifecta
Third baseman records three outs for highlight reel
CHICAGO -- There was a reason that Jose Quintana did not allow a baserunner until two outs in the third inning of the White Sox 6-3 loss to the Cubs on Saturday night at U.S. Cellular Field. And that reason was Tyler Saladino's second-inning defense at third base.
The rookie began the frame by running down an Anthony Rizzo foul popup outside of third, even though he was shaded toward shortstop in the shift. He then knocked down Jorge Soler's hard-hit grounder on the line, deflected the ball to himself and fired a strike to first for the out.
Video: CHC@CWS: Saladino recovers, barehands to nab Soler
Saladino's crowing accomplishment came against Chris Denorfia, who smashed one to his left that Saladino caught with a full-out dive. Alexei Ramirez was so impressed by the play that he raised his arms in celebration.
Saladino added a double and a run scored, extending his hitting streak to six games. His defense, though, was truly highlight-worthy.
"He can play anywhere, Tyler has proven that," said White Sox manager Robin Ventura. "You put him anywhere on the field and he can play. That stuff doesn't surprise us right now."