**S**H**O**:Bat boy Javier Herrera made a remarkable bare-handed catch to save Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani from being hit by a foul ball that was headed straight for him.
In a heart-stopping moment during a Chicago White Sox-Los Angeles Dodgers game on Wednesday night, bat boy Javier Herrera emerged as an unlikely hero, saving superstar Shohei Ohtani from a potentially dangerous foul ball.
Bat Boy's Heroic Catch Saves Shohei Ohtani from Foul Ball
As Dodgers infielder Kiké Hernández stepped up to the plate, a foul ball hurtled towards the dugout where Ohtani was walking. Herrera, with lightning-fast reflexes, lunged forward and snatched the ball out of the air with his bare hands, preventing it from striking the unsuspecting Ohtani.
Ohtani, who had his back turned and was unaware of the incoming projectile, expressed his gratitude for Herrera's quick thinking. "MY HERO," he wrote on his Instagram story, accompanied by a photo of the media scrum surrounding Herrera.
Bat Boy's Heroic Catch Saves Shohei Ohtani from Foul Ball
Herrera's moment of glory went viral, and he was praised by both teammates and opponents. "He needs a contract extension, a raise," said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. "Very grateful."
Herrera downplayed his heroics, saying, "I was just doing my job." However, his selfless act highlighted the importance of vigilance and situational awareness in the high-stakes environment of baseball.
Bat Boy's Heroic Catch Saves Shohei Ohtani from Foul Ball
Foul balls can reach speeds of over 100 miles per hour, and they pose a significant risk of injury to players, coaches, and staff in dugouts. The fact that Herrera was able to react so quickly to save Ohtani is a testament to his alertness and skill.
Ohtani, a two-way sensation who is considered one of the best players in baseball, has been instrumental in the Dodgers' success this season. His 25th home run of the season, a solo shot in the first inning, contributed to the Dodgers' 4-0 victory over the White Sox.
Herrera's heroic catch not only protected Ohtani from injury but also gave the Dodgers a much-needed boost of morale. It was a reminder that even in the most demanding moments, the unsung heroes of the game can make all the difference.
As the Dodgers continue their quest for another World Series title, Herrera's presence on the team will be more than just a footnote. He has proven to be a valuable asset, both on and off the field, and his quick thinking has earned him a place in Dodger lore.
