Brad Ausmus has seen plenty of relievers in seventh-inning jams this season. He had not seen Drew VerHagen, who had pitched in close games but not with a lead in the balance in the seventh inning or later. His first chance at a hold was a big one, at least in terms of leverage.
With the bases loaded, one out in the seventh inning and Miguel Sano due up in a 4-1 game, Ausmus had VerHagen ready with the idea of giving a chance. He had veterans Al Alburquerque and Neftali Feliz available, but he went with the rookie.