Closer Clayton Beeter earned the save Saturday in the Nationals’ riveting 4-3 win against the Rays at Tropicana Field. But the real save belonged to the Nats’ defense. It was spectacular, with at least three highlight-reel efforts that prevented a handful of runs. The play of the game -- and maybe the season -- belonged to center fielder Jacob Young. With the Nationals protecting a one-run lead in the eighth inning, Young ran down what looked to be a certain extra-base hit from Victor Mesa Jr. in left-center field. Young caught it in full-sprint mode as his head and right side crashed into the wall. Before crumpling to the turf in pain, Young had the presence of mind to shovel the ball to left fielder Daylen Lile, as Rays baserunner Chandler Simpson retreated to first base. Trainers rushed to the field and checked out Young, who remained prone for about five minutes before walking to the dugout under his own power. Nationals manager Blake Butera said he got good news because Young’s injury was termed as "day to day." Butera said Young "got the wind knocked out of him," while feeling soreness and tightness in his right side. "Unbelievable play," Butera said. "Absolutely unbelievable play. Huge moment in the game. Jacob is such a good center fielder and he busts his tail out there." Young’s play was the talk of the Nationals’ clubhouse.
