WASHINGTON – Rookie Jason Heyward has become the first member of the Atlanta Braves to steal home in 10 years.
While Brian McCann was caught in a rundown, Heyward charged in from third base and slid under the tag of Nationals catcher Ivan Rodriguez in the first inning Wednesday night.
The last Braves player to steal home was Rafael Furcal on April 9, 2000, against San Francisco.
With one out and runners on first and third, Livan Hernandez struck out Eric Hinske. McCann broke for second, and Rodriguez's throw easily beat him to the bag. So McCann changed direction and headed back to first, winding up in a rundown.
Heyward headed home, drawing a throw to the plate from second baseman Adam Kennedy. Heyward was safe, while McCann stole second.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.