His leaping catch in Philadelphia topped all MLB plays last season.
Michael Harris II, like many other members of the Atlanta Braves, dealt with injuries that caused him to miss 50 games during the 2024 season. While that combined with a low BAABIP led to a step back offensively, defensively, the 23-year-old centerfielder shined.
Harris II was good for eight outs above average, according to Baseball Savant, despite missing almost one-third of the campaign. In 255 attempts, he was successful on 94-percent, three percentage points better that estimated.
No better play showed off his athletic ability better than the leaping catch he made on August 31 against the Philadelphia Phillies. He race toward the gap in right-center and leaped against the wall to make a highlight reel catch that saw him almost toppled over the the fence and into the Phillies’ bullpen.
The catch was so spectacular that MLB Network has named his catch the top defensive play for MLB in 2024.
#1 as in like #1? 🫣 https://t.co/6GqzNifhld
— Michael Harris II〽️ (@MoneyyyMikeee) January 19, 2025
Harris II, himself, was surprised by the honor, as seen by his post above.
With Spring Training 2025 right around the corner, Harris II will be counted on to be a key contributor for the Braves during the season. Steamer has him projected to be worth 5.0 fWAR, which would top his total from his rookie year in 2022.
If he can stay healthy this season, he as the potential to have his first 20 home runs and 20 stolen base season, while continuing to provide the Braves with premium defense in the outfield.
