NEW YORK
The third hop did it. The ball was nothing off Eric Hosmer’s bat. A chopper. If he hits this ball 100 times against a big-league defense, it is entirely likely that he is out 90. Maybe more. The first hop went high in the air.
Hosmer ran hard, immediately. This is part of the team’s DNA. They don't assume. You never know. Mets second baseman Daniel Murphy charged. He’s a terrific hitter, but an adventurous fielder. Hosmer was smart not to assume. The second hop seemed to die on the infield grass.
Murphy charged hard, immediately.