Outfield pro Jung Hoo Lee demonstrates jaw-dropping agility by catching the ball mid-air between his legs
Extraordinary Knee Catch by Jung Hoo Lee Energizes Giants in Win Against Rays
San Francisco Giants center fielder Jung Hoo Lee made a spectacular catch on August 17, 2025, that has been hailed as one of the most impressive defensive plays in baseball history. During a game at Oracle Park against the Tampa Bay Rays, Lee tracked a 105 mph drive by Yandy Díaz into right-center field (Triples Alley).
As he slid to catch the ball, it initially popped out of his glove but then bounced along his left thigh and calf before he trapped it between his knees and secured it with his glove, completing an incredible out.
Lee managed to grip the ball just below his knees, and after standing up, he nonchalantly plucked the ball out from between his legs. This remarkable play has been widely praised across baseball media and social platforms, with MLB calling it “unreal” and ESPN dubbing it possibly the catch of the year.
The Giants' official Instagram described it as “the type of catch you may never see again,” and the clip has amassed tens of thousands of likes and hundreds of comments praising the athleticism and sheer difficulty of the catch. Fans and analysts alike have reacted with amazement, highlighting Lee’s speed, presence of mind, and defensive skill.
Lee, a 26-year-old South Korean center fielder known for his all-around talent and popularity in San Francisco after signing a significant contract in 2024, further solidified his reputation with this highlight. The catch not only prevented extra bases but also energized his team and fans, adding to the Giants’ 7-1 win that day.
Teammate Drew Gilbert called Lee’s catch a "winning play from a winning player," while broadcaster Duane Kuiper described it as the catch of the decade. Rays player Díaz was "200 percent sure" he would get a double before Lee made the catch, but the South Korean center fielder had other ideas.
According to Díaz, Lee might be the only player to have ever caught a ball between his legs in such a way. This fact includes a quote from MLB.com. Lee himself described his catch as a "slide" due to the heavy wind.
The win ended the Giants' seven-game losing streak, and before Sunday’s game, the Giants had lost 15 of their last 16 games at Oracle Park. Lee’s extraordinary catch has undoubtedly brought new life to the team and their fans, and it is a play that will be remembered for years to come.
Gilbert found Lee's catch to be "very impressive" and "a big play," and he is glad that Lee is on their team. Fans and analysts alike are thrilled to see what other incredible feats the talented center fielder will accomplish in the future.
Incredible as it was, Lee's slide-catch not only showcased his defensive skill in baseball but also revitalized the team's spirit, contributing to the Giants' victory in the sport. This extraordinary play, often praised as the catch of the decade, may have set a new precedent in the annals of baseball history.
