Beltre is making a statement as American League’s best defensive third baseman

Adrian Beltre...another graduate of the Celerino Sánchez School of Upper Chest Dents.

If Beltre played soccer or hockey, there’s no question he’d be a goalkeeper, because that’s how he plays third base. Part of what sets him apart is that when he gets a bad bounce or tough hop, he will slap it down instead of trying to catch it. With the strength of his arm, he can often then pick it up and fire in time.

“I don’t know if that’s a bad habit or not,” Beltre said. “When a ball is hit hard and it has like a tricky bounce where you’re not going to get it, I just try to block it and keep it in front of me.

“It’s a short distance from home to first, but if I can keep it close to me, there’s a good chance I can pick it up and throw to first base and get the guy.”