Arizona Diamondbacks reliever Jalen Beeks faced an unexpected challenge on Thursday night at Coors Field, where he was sent in to close out the game against the Colorado Rockies. What began as a routine task in an 8-1 lead quickly turned complicated due to a persistent insect, making Beeks’s appearance far less straightforward than anticipated.
Beeks Struggles Momentarily After Swallowing a Fly
Early in his outing, Beeks’s second pitch missed its mark to Rockies player Brenton Doyle, signaling that something was off. The southpaw repeatedly struggled to clear his throat and appeared unsettled as the fly interfered with his concentration. After a brief pause, he managed to regain composure and complete the final outs successfully, securing an 8-2 win for Arizona.
Reliever Shares Rare and Unexpected Experience
After the game, Beeks explained the unusual incident to reporters:
“Yeah, I swallowed a fly when I lifted my leg,”
he said.
“Never had that happen, but, you know, we got through it. We got the win. That’s the important thing.”
He also added,
“I gagged a little bit. It just took me a second, but I was fine. No big deal. Good story for later, though.”
A Memorable Moment in Major League Baseball History
This unexpected episode may turn into a favorite anecdote for Beeks, one that likely will surprise friends and fans alike. When conversations at barbecues turn to tales of big mergers or travel hassles, Beeks will have a unique claim about swallowing an insect while pitching in the Major Leagues. The moment creates a lasting memory, unless another player like Joba Chamberlain has a similar story to top it.
Broader Context of the Game and Significance
Manager Torey Lovullo’s decision to send Beeks out in the closing innings was meant to ease pressure in a commanding lead. While the fly incident created a temporary setback, Beeks’s resilience ensured the Diamondbacks clinched the victory without further issues. The game added another chapter to the season for both Arizona and Colorado, highlighting the unpredictable moments that can surface even in seemingly routine situations.