In an electrifying finish, the San Francisco Giants secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on March 15, 2024, thanks to a remarkable three-run, inside-the-park home run by Patrick Bailey in the ninth inning. This achievement not only clinched the game for the Giants but also placed Bailey among a rare group of players in Major League Baseball (MLB) history.
Bailey Makes History
With one out in the ninth, Bailey stepped up to the plate and connected with a fastball from Jordan Romano, sending the ball into right-center field. It ricocheted off the brick wall, allowing Bailey to round the bases and score. He became just the third catcher to hit a walk-off, inside-the-park home run, following Pat Moran of the Chicago Cubs in 1907 and Bennie Tate of the Washington Nationals in 1926. Notably, Bailey’s hit would have cleared the fences in 29 of the 30 MLB stadiums, with only Oracle Park being the exception.
Bailey’s victory shot capped a rally that began with a leadoff double by Casey Schmitt. After Jung Hoo Lee popped out, Wilmer Flores contributed with a single, setting the stage for Bailey’s historic moment.
Game Highlights and Player Performances
In addition to Bailey’s heroics, the Giants benefited from contributions by Mike Yastrzemski, who reached base twice and scored, marking the team’s sixth win in their last seven games. On the opposing side, Kyle Schwarber, an All-Star, recorded two hits, including his team-leading 28th home run. Schwarber’s homer off Giants reliever Spencer Bivens sailed into McCovey Cove, scoring Brandon Marsh, who pinch-hit and singled earlier in the inning.
Despite the loss, the Phillies showcased strong performances, with Robbie Ray on the mound for the Giants. Ray, who was named an All-Star for the second time in his career just days prior, pitched 5.2 innings, allowing four hits and one run.
The game concluded with Ryan Walker earning the win after retiring one batter with two on in the top of the ninth. As the Giants celebrate this thrilling victory, they continue to build momentum in their season, with Bailey’s unforgettable play at the heart of it all.
