Fans often don’t realize the kind of courage that it takes to step into the batter’s box and face a big-league pitcher. Like, if I’m staring down a pitch from Aroldis Chapman, the only emotion I’m experiencing is complete and utter terror.
Angels infielder Luis Rengifo, on the other hand, can laugh about facing Chapman. He’s just built different.
During Tuesday’s game between the Angels and Rangers, Chapman pitched a perfect eighth inning and got the appearance started with a seven-pitch strikeout of Rengifo. The pitch that ultimately retired Rengifo on strikes was straight-up unfair — a 102.2 mph sinker that tailed towards the left-handed batter’s box from a lefty pitcher.
Aroldis Chapman, Mean 102mph Two Seamer. 😠
Rengifo's face. 😂 pic.twitter.com/HwhBTlLRuk
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) August 16, 2023
There wasn’t much Rengifo could’ve done with that pitch, and he didn’t hide his thoughts on that whole experience against Chapman. Shortly after striking out, Rengifo was laughing as he returned to the dugout.
A 102 mph pitch shouldn’t move like that, so I can’t blame Rengifo for being dismayed. Fans related with Rengifo’s disbelief even if the laughter was shocking to see.
This was how Twitter reacted
I swear this is filthiest we have seen chapman
— Roberto (@LaCabraBrava05) August 16, 2023
Not entirely certain that physics applied to that pitch.
— Michael Ashe (@arpophyllum) August 16, 2023
That ball started down the middle 😂
— Suavé (@NicoWordSmith) August 16, 2023
The Rangers held on to win, 7-3.
102 WITH a wrinkle is ridiculous! You can hear the profanity through Rengifo's smile.
— Keith (@textoocho) August 16, 2023
No chance. Chapman looks better than ever.
— UnstoppableRohan09 (@Baseball090909) August 16, 2023
— Chadd Alexander (@chadd0891) August 16, 2023
