Alec Bohm showcased an impressive performance for the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday night, with his standout play culminating in a memorable call to end the game.
Following a strong showing that included breaking the team’s streak of 19 consecutive singles with a home run in the bottom of the fourth inning, Bohm further impressed by making a crucial slide and catch in foul territory to thwart any chance of a comeback by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
During the NBC Sportsnet Philadelphia broadcast, John Kruk and Tom McCarthy were on commentary duty, with McCarthy delivering a notable call for the game-ending play. With two runners on base and two outs, McCarthy exclaimed, “He loves this place,” as Bohm executed the catch, sending the home fans into a frenzy.
The Phillies’ 5-1 victory marked their fifth win in the past seven games. However, it also coincided with the two-year anniversary of a memorable incident involving Bohm. On April 11, 2022, during a game against the New York Mets, Bohm committed three errors, eliciting a sarcastic cheer from fans at Citizens Bank Park after making a clean throw for an out in the top of the second inning. A camera captured Bohm expressing frustration, uttering, “I f*****g hate this place,” as he walked toward teammate Didi Gregorius.
Later in that game, Bohm’s patience at the plate paid off as he drew a walk to lead off the eighth inning, sparking the game-winning rally.
Following the game, Bohm took responsibility for his earlier comment, showing accountability and earning respect from fans by apologizing and acknowledging that his frustration got the best of him.
“Emotions got the best of me,” he admitted in the clubhouse after the game, a gesture that Philly fans appreciate.
As the 2022 playoffs unfolded, Bohm’s redemption story continued. During an interview with Lauren Gardner of MLB Network on the field after the Phillies secured a victory in the Wild Card Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Bohm reflected on his challenging first two years with the team. Despite the difficulties, he expressed his affection for Philadelphia, stating simply, “I love this place.”
This sentiment was echoed once more when the Phillies clinched a spot in the World Series after defeating the San Diego Padres in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series on Oct. 23. Bohm reiterated his love and appreciation for the fanbase, underscoring his journey from adversity to triumph.
Following Thursday’s game, Tim Kelly of Phillies Nation shared Bohm’s reflections on his personal and professional development over the years, emphasizing how he has learned to maintain perspective and stay composed, especially during challenging moments. Bohm expressed his growth by stating, “I think there’s a lot of times that I look back and one game over the course of a season, I kinda took it a little too hard at times. So I think now, just seeing the big picture, being a little more calm and confident has really helped me out.”
Bohm’s multifaceted contributions, including his clutch hitting with runners on base, defensive improvements at third base, distinctive style with a headband, and willingness to take accountability, have endeared him to fans in the City of Brotherly Love.
In the current season, Bohm boasts a slash line of .267/.365/.422, accompanied by one triple, one home run, eight RBI, and a team-leading seven walks in 13 games. With more matchups ahead at Citizens Bank Park before hitting the road, Bohm has ample opportunities to continue showcasing his affinity for playing in Philadelphia throughout the month.
