3 plays that defined Alex Gordon’s career with KC Royals

Someday the KC Royals will have a defensive player of the year award named “The Gordo”.  The image above will be the statue.

I am going to cheat on this portion.  I knew I wanted to showcase his hose out in left field and what better way than displaying all 20 of his assists his first full year roaming the outfield.  So before we get to one of his signature plays, check out this clip:

It is hard to narrow down one catch when there are volumes of examples to choose from.  However, being in the spotlight of the playoffs and being willing to sacrifice your body merits strong consideration.

Of course, 2014 was a magical year for the franchise.  Reaching the playoffs for the first time since ’85 and the legendary Wild Card game started a great playoff winning streak.  While hosting the Baltimore Orioles in Game 3, Gordon not only displayed his speed and ability to read a ball but his overall toughness.

J.J. Hardy attempted to jumpstart the Oriole offense with a long drive off his bat.  What followed was a catch and collision that woke up the Royals dugout and crowd.

The play would prove valuable as the Royals would go on to hold on to a 2-1 victory.  Had Gordon not caught up with and held onto the ball, the outcome could have been much different.