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George Springer makes exceptional catch while slamming into outfield wall

Chris Cwik
·Staff writer

Over the first month of the season, the Houston Astros have shocked the baseball world. At 18-9, the club leads the American League in wins. A big part of their success has been pitching. Dallas Keuchel has been an early Cy Young candidate, and the team's bullpen has completely neutralized the competition.

Part of that success is due to the team's strong defense. Outfielder George Springer demonstrated as much Tuesday against the Texas Rangers.

With the Rangers up 7-1 in the seventh inning, Adrian Beltre hit a shot out to Springer in right field. Springer ranged back for the ball, leapt and made a tremendous catch to end the inning.

As he came down with the ball, Springer smashed into the outfield wall. Springer laid on the ground for quite some time following the play, and appeared to be trying to catch his breath.

While he was able to get up and leave the field, Springer did not come out of the top of the eighth. He was replaced by Jonathan Villar.

Following the game, manager A.J. Hinch said Springer was sore, and would be evaluated for a concussion.

Springer did not speak to the media after the game, according to Evan Drellich of the Houston Chronicle. As of right now, Springer will not play in Wednesday's contest.

While Springer hasn't hit much to open the year, this is not the first time he's made an excellent defensive play. Springer robbed the Rangers of a walk-off grand slam in early April.

Despite the lack of hitting, Springer's defense and ability on the bases has been extremely valuable for the Astros. Losing him for any significant period of time would greatly impact the team's ability to remain at the top of the division.

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Springer's willingness to go all out during a game in which the Astros had little chance of winning says a lot about his competitiveness. But if the team wants to continue their winning ways, they'll need Springer to be healthy. His pitchers likely appreciate his effort, but he may want to ease up next time if it means he's able to stay on the field.

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Chris Cwik is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Chris_Cwik