Colorado Rockies history: Reliving Nolan Arenado’s amazing catch (video)

As we continue our look at the 32 top moments in Colorado Rockies history, we take a look at an outstanding defensive play by Gold Glove third baseman Nolan Arenado.

Let’s be honest … there are many plays that Arenado has made over the years that could fit on an all-time list like this. The 26-year-old defensive wizard has a way of making even the most incredible plays seem routine.

For this countdown, however, we’re focusing on Arenado’s catch in San Francisco that sent over a tarp and into the stands.

More from Rox Pile

• A Colorado Rockies Thanksgiving
• Colorado Rockies: What if Todd Helton had played football instead?
• Colorado Rockies: Charlie Blackmon out for the season
• Colorado Rockies: Injuries shift look of roster ahead of Dodgers series
• Colorado Rockies: Has Sean Bouchard earned a second look in 2023?

Rewind to April of 2015. It is early in the season and the Rockies have traveled to the Bay Area to take on the division rival Giants. Arenado has a habit of disappointing the Giants through his offensive prowess (his walkoff cycle at Coors Field this season is just one of many moments where Arenado has used his bat to topple the Giants). On this early-season night, Arenado will flash his leather to frustrate those wearing the orange and black.

In the eighth inning of a game at AT&T Park on April 14, Gregor Blanco of the Giants pops up what looks to be a routine ball that may go foul. However, Arenado made the play anything but routine.

Arenado, running full speed, reached the ball just before it hit the tarp in foul ground at AT&T Park, his momentum carrying him into the stands. Having no time to brace himself, Arenado goes face first into the stands. Still, he has the mental awareness to not only grab the ball for the out but also gather himself and try to double up San Francisco’s Angel Pagan, who was advancing to third on the play. Simply amazing.

You can see the video for yourself below. It’s a play that Nolan’s father said left him “pumped up” and drew comparisons to the famous catch made by Derek Jeter as he crashed into the stands in New York.

Next: Another amazing Rockies moment: Jamie Moyer rewrites history

We consider this one of the top 32 moments in Colorado franchise history … but is it good enough to be voted into the second round of the tournament by Rockies fans? That’s the big question.

Follow @RoxPileFS on Twitter to vote in each tournament matchup and see results.