Hunter Renfroe’s highlight-reel throw against the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday may have been one of the best plays of the year for the Los Angeles Angels.
With one out in the ninth inning and the Angels leading 6-5, Renfroe hunted down a ball hit by former college teammate Adam Frazier, then threw it from right field to second base to deny an Orioles comeback.
In Renfroe’s first season with the Angels, he’s hitting .250 with a .790 OPS. He’s also secured 10 home runs in 43 games played.
With the goal of improving their right field, the Angels acquired Renfroe in a trade with the Brewers last November in exchange for pitchers Janson Junk, Elvis Peguero and Adam Seminaris.
Renfroe, who won an arbitration case against the Angels, is currently on a one-year contract worth $11.9 million rather than the $11.25 million originally offered.
His outstanding defensive displays throughout this season, including the remarkable throw against the Orioles, have potentially increased his chances of earning an extension at a higher salary.
Before joining the Angels, the 31-year-old played for several MLB teams in his seven-year major league career, including the San Diego Padres, Tampa Bay Rays, Boston Red Sox and Milwaukee Brewers.
The Angels (23-22) won the game 6-5 and end their two-game skid against the Orioles. They play the Twins on Friday.
