Jo Adell’s three homer-robbing catches in one game is a baseball first, earning him legendary praise from Torii Hunter and redefining defensive excellence in the majors.
On April 4, 2026, in Anaheim, California, Los Angeles Angels right fielder Jo Adell delivered a defensive performance for the ages, robbing three home runs in a single game—a feat never before accomplished in Major League Baseball history. The game, a 1-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners, was sealed by Adell’s glove, with each catch coming in high-leverage moments to preserve the shutout as reported by AP News.
Torii Hunter’s Unprecedented Praise
The final robbery, in the ninth inning, was nothing short of cinematic. Adell leaped at the right-field foul pole to catch J.P. Crawford’s drive, flipped over the low wall, and fell into the first row of seats before holding his glove up in triumph after a replay review confirmed the out. This moment, captured on video and shared by MLB’s official X account here, prompted Torii Hunter—a nine-time Gold Glove winner and Hall of Fame-caliber defender—to declare it “probably the greatest defensive game I’ve ever seen.” Hunter, watching from the bench as a special assistant, added, “I was jumping up and down. I almost passed out.”
From Struggles to Stardom
Adell’s journey to this moment has been transformative. After early defensive struggles in his career, he emerged as a Gold Glove finalist in 2024, a turnaround largely credited to Hunter’s mentorship. “His impact has been huge,” Adell said. “It’s mental when you’re out there—it’s a mindset of going to get the baseball, being aggressive. When you err on the side of being aggressive, you’d be surprised at how many plays you make.” Hunter instilled this philosophy, which defined his own career and now fuels Adell’s brilliance.
A Historic First
The three robberies came against Cal Raleigh in the first inning, Josh Naylor in the eighth, and Crawford in the ninth. Each catch was a critical stop in a pitchers’ duel, with the Angels scoring only one run. This performance is believed to be the first time in MLB history a player has robbed three homers in one game, surpassing the previous single-season high of four, set by Jacob Young and Fernando Tatis in 2025 according to AP News.
The Numbers Behind the Feat
Statistically, Adell has been a force since 2020. According to Inside Edge data cited in the game recap by AP News, he has 10 home run robberies, tied with Kyle Tucker of the Dodgers for the most in the majors. This consistency, combined with his 2024 Gold Glove finalist nod, signals a player who has mastered the art of defensive timing and route-running.
Implications for the Angels and Beyond
For the Angels, Adell’s performance is a cornerstone of their defensive identity, offering hope after years of inconsistency. Fans are buzzing with theories about his Gold Glove chances for 2026, while analysts note how his showcase highlights the value of defensive analytics and veteran guidance. This game isn’t just a highlight reel—it’s a case study in how one player’s growth can alter a team’s fortunes in tight contests.
As the season unfolds, Adell’s name will be synonymous with defensive excellence. Whether this was a peak or a preview of more historic moments, he has already etched his place in baseball lore, validated by the highest praise from one of the game’s all-time great defenders.
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