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Cleveland Indians outfielder Tyler Naquin on inside-the-park home run: 'It was incredible'

Posted at 7:11 PM, Oct 14, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-14 21:04:42-04

It's probably the most recognized and important play of the season, and embodies the excitement and resilient attitude that carried the Cleveland Indians into the playoffs.

A deep drive along the right side of the field by outfielder Tyler Naquin put the Indians ahead, eventually securing a victory against the Toronto Blue Jays Aug. 19. 

"Once I crossed home plate it was an unbelievable feeling," Naquin, 25, said. "I felt the whole team running with me down the third base line, it was incredible, an incredible feeling."

Tied 2-2 in the bottom of the 9th inning, Naquin hit a super rare "inside the park" game-winning home run. The thrilling moment is unforgettable for fans and for the four-year professional. 

Naquin said he felt the chance to win as he rounded bases and finished with a fist pumped rock on sign.

"I'd say when I was coming around second base, I could just tell the energy from the dug out seeing how those guys were reacting to the play behind me and stuff, everybody's eyes were as big as baseballs," he said.

As he prepares to face off with the team he made history against, Naquin said he was just looking for a hit at the time. Now his teammates won't let him forget it. 

"They'll just give me the rock on sign all the time, make fun of me about it a little bit, just give me a hard time," he said.