Tigers' Riley Greene becomes first player in MLB history to hit two ninth-inning home runs in same game
Context:
Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene made history by becoming the first MLB player to hit two ninth-inning home runs in the same game during a 9-1 victory over the Los Angeles Angels. Greene's first home run broke a 1-1 tie, setting the Tigers ahead, while his second expanded the lead to 9-1. His performance was part of a powerful ninth inning for the Tigers, which saw additional home runs by Colt Keith and Javier Baez. Despite not initially realizing the historical significance of his performance, Greene expressed excitement but remained focused on the team's upcoming games. This achievement places Greene in company with former Tigers legends Magglio Ordonez and Al Kaline, who also achieved two homers in one inning in previous decades.
Dive Deeper:
Riley Greene made MLB history during a game against the Los Angeles Angels by hitting two home runs in the ninth inning, marking the first time this feat has been accomplished in league history.
Greene's first home run came off a cutter from Kenley Jansen, breaking a 1-1 tie and giving the Tigers a 2-1 lead with a 371-foot shot over the right field wall.
The Tigers' ninth-inning surge included home runs from Colt Keith and Javier Baez, with Greene's second home run against a new pitcher, Jake Eder, capping the inning with a 409-foot three-run blast.
This performance by Greene was crucial in securing the Tigers' commanding 9-1 victory over the Angels, contributing significantly to the team's successful start to the season.
Greene was not immediately aware of the historical significance of his achievement but expressed a pragmatic focus on the team's next game, underscoring his commitment to continued team success.
Riley Greene is now in the rare company of past Tigers greats Magglio Ordonez and Hall-of-Famer Al Kaline, who also hit two home runs in a single inning in 2007 and 1955, respectively.
The Tigers, leading the American League, look to continue their strong performance in their next matchup against the struggling Angels, with Greene having a season batting average of .262, six home runs, and 16 RBI.