In Northwoods League baseball action, Duluth Huskies third baseman Ethan Surowiec fielded a ground ball while running the bases to prevent a double play during Tuesday's game against the La Crosse Loggers.
It happened in the bottom of the eighth inning. The Huskies had the bases loaded, with Rowan Kelly on third, Surowiec on second, and Noah Furcht on first as they looked to extend their 5-2 lead. Huskies batter Reagan Reeder hit a ground ball towards Loggers shortstop Mikey Ryan III in what looked like a sure double play. However, Surowiec, on his way to third, turned towards the ball and scooped it up himself.
Surowiec immediately acknowledged he was out, as is the case when a baserunner touches a live ball while running the basepaths, as he immediately tossed the ball to the pitcher and jogged back to the dugout. However, he was successful in preventing the double play by sacrificing himself. Although Kelly was unable to score on the play, Furcht advanced to second and Reeder was safe at first.
Have you ever seen a baserunner field a ground ball to prevent a double play? 🤯 pic.twitter.com/LBu9upFuS3
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) July 4, 2025
According to the official box score, Ryan was credited with a putout at short. Surowiec's play was clearly intentional, but someone may have to check the rulebook. Some may say this was a "heads up" play on the part of Surowiec (unlike some of the baserunning blunders we have seen this year), but it seems questionable whether this should be legal.
Surowiec, who just finished his freshman year at Ole Miss, had an impressive day overall, going 4-for-5 from the plate with 2 RBI and a stolen base. The Huskies were unable to score in the eighth inning and held off a ninth inning rally to beat the Loggers 5-4.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports).
