Oct 7, 2021; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Nelson Cruz (23) hits a home run during the third inning of game one of the 2021 ALDS against the Boston Red Sox at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports
Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Nelson Cruz hit a weird home run in Game 1 of the ALDS.
In the third inning off Game 1 of the ALDS between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox, designated hitter Nelson Cruz hit a home run that was confusing to fans and players but ultimately counted.
It’s not clear in the video, but the game is in Tropicana Field which is a domed ballpark. Cruz’s home run traveled so high that it hit the cat walk near the roof of the field. Here is a better look at the contraptions that interfered with the ball.
By rule, a ball that is hit off that structure is a home run. Tampa Bay and their fans will take it. The odd home run puts the rays up 3-0 over the Red Sox. They will try to hold on to this lead and take Game 1 of the five game series.