Spider-Man in Cleats: Clarke Climbs Wall for Catch of the Year

Athletics outfielder Denzel Clarke may have only recently embarked on his Major League career, but he is already generating substantial attention. On Monday night against the Los Angeles Angels, Clarke executed what numerous observers are deeming the catch of the year.

In the first inning, Angels hitter Nolan Schanuel launched a ball that appeared destined for a home run. The ball was soaring over the left-center field wall when Clarke intervened. The 25-year-old center fielder sprinted at full speed to the warning track, perfectly timed his leap, utilized the wall for support, and reached far over the fence to snatch the ball from the air.

https://youtu.be/-5RnsRv6JZg?si=3qJ2Umk4Kt30a8B8

The spectators were left in a state of astonishment. Schanuel himself could only gaze in disbelief before making his way back to the dugout.

“I just timed it up,” Clarke remarked after the game. “Found my distance between the wall and did what the ball told me to do. Just go up there and get it.”

“I’m always very tentative to say this was the best one,” he continued. “But I think this is probably the best one I’ve ever made.” (MLB.com)

Clarke, who made his MLB debut on May 23, has participated in a mere 16 games thus far in his burgeoning career. Yet, this is already his third remarkable catch. Earlier this season, he thwarted Blue Jays catcher Alejandro Kirk from hitting a home run by climbing the wall. Subsequently, he made an impressive running catch against the Orioles, crashing into the center-field wall and sustaining a shoulder injury while denying Jorge Mateo a hit.

https://youtu.be/Cr8NK-wfCZc?si=gA0Gd-7K9LoMNsjF

While it may be challenging to surpass this feat, do not be surprised if Denzel Clarke discovers a way to achieve an even more astonishing play.