Auerbach's acrobatics reach new heights

Brett Auerbach can play just about anywhere in the field.

The Giants’ utility man has manned five positions across two levels in 2023 -- second base, third base, left field, center field, catcher -- and in 29 games with High-A Eugene, he’s only played as a backstop five times.

But it’s clear that the sporadic time at the position hasn’t zapped his defensive abilities one bit.

The 26-year-old made what is perhaps the catch of the year in a contest between the Emeralds and the Hillsboro Hops, tossing aside his regard for safety as he leaped over the dugout railing to make a jaw-dropping catch.

The catch was so impressive that even the opposing team’s social media manager had to give their congratulations.

pic.twitter.com/ibBvRALdyE

— Hillsboro Hops (@HillsboroHops) July 22, 2023

D-backs prospect Kristian Robinson was probably expecting another chance in his first-inning at-bat when he popped up the first pitch thrown by righty Eric Silva. As the ball sailed toward the Emeralds dugout, Auerbach shed his mask and began a dead sprint to try to make a play.

Even his own teammates didn’t expect him to attempt the catch, because when Auerbach leaped forward and made the grab, they could only watch as he flipped over the railing and slid toward the dugout floor headfirst.

Of course, as soon as they realized what they all just saw, a small celebration of high fives, fist bumps and smiles was in order.

Giants fans will probably tell you that this isn't out of the ordinary for Auerbach. Last season -- also as a backstop -- he made a leaping catch into the netting for Double-A Richmond. And while manning left field in a Spring Training game this season, he made a diving play to save a potential run from scoring.