That the Giants were able to blank the Rangers 4-0 in Game 4 of the World Series with a 21-year-old southpaw on the mound is nothing short of incredible. But then you remember that the 21 year old southpaw was throwing to a 23 year old backstop and the whole thing just jumps to another level. As much as media types like to talk about the importance of veteran experience and maturity, the Giants' young battery operated like champions.
World Series Game 4: Buster Posey Hits First Postseason Home Run
Buster Posey, of course, was the guy receiving Madison Bumgarner and calling most of his pitches through eight innings of shutout baseball. For that, Posey is already deserving of applause.
But beyond what he did behind the plate, Posey was also able to make a contribution with the bat. With the score 3-0 Giants in the top of the eighth, Posey stood in against Darren O’Day - who had retired him in an important at bat the night before - and blasted a two-strike changeup to center field. The fly ball didn’t look so bad off the bat, but it continued to carry and came down several feet beyond the fence.
Posey has by no means been ineffective at the plate in the playoffs, batting .273. But this insurance home run was his first home run of the month, and the first postseason home run of his career. Though it may not have had the most in-game significance, it is a very important and memorable moment for Posey as an individual and as a blossoming superstar.
Posey became the eighth catcher all-time to hit a playoff home run at the age of 23 or younger. He joins the company of names like Yogi Berra, Johnny Bench, and Brian McCann. That's not bad company to keep.
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