Top 10 MLB plays of 2021

Following the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign, this past season featured plenty of crazy catches, defensive gems, home runs, and baserunning highlights to choose from during a full 162-game schedule. Let's count down the 10 best plays from 2021.

10. Robles gets full extension on dying fly ball

The Nationals outfielder ran a mile to steal an extra-base hit from the Padres. Washington had a rough season, but Victor Robles' effort on this play was an exception.

9. Schwarber turns into Barry Bonds

Kyle Schwarber went deep against the Rays to cap off a nuclear stretch with the Nationals where he hit 16 homers over 18 games, including a record-tying 12 round-trippers over 10 contests.

8. Abreu goes all out to save no-no

It always seems like there's a defensive play during a no-hitter that stands out above others. For Jose Abreu, his lunging play in the ninth inning preserved what turned out to be Carlos Rodon's first no-no.

7. Mookie delivers incredible game-saving snag

The Dodgers superstar's flair for the dramatic was once again on display with a game-saving snag to beat the rival Padres. There's a reason this dude has five Gold Gloves before his age-28 season.

6. Baez forces Pirates into confusing gaffe

Javier Baez's baserunning was so mesmerizing that then-Pirates first baseman Will Craig left for South Korea due to the spotlight caused by the blunder.

5. Arozarena catches Red Sox napping

Move over Reggie Jackson, Randy Arozarena is the new "Mr. October." The Rays outfielder continued to build on his stellar postseason resume with a straight steal of home against the Red Sox in the ALDS.

4. Springer makes stupendous diving catch

George Springer has some serious spring in his step. The Blue Jays outfielder went all out for a ridiculous diving catch that will be shown on highlight reels for years.

3. Tatis gives Bauer taste of own medicine

Fernando Tatis Jr. took a shot at Trevor Bauer by covering his eye after hitting a leadoff homer. The star hurler made headlines for pitching with one eye closed during spring training.

Tatis then busted out the "billionaire strut" made famous by UFC star Conor McGregor following his second round-tripper.

2. Polanco robs Escobar of walk-off HR

Gregory Polanco made the best play of his career by soaring through the air to rob the Brewers of a win. The Pirates outfielder gets the No. 2 spot because you rarely see a homer brought back to send a game to extras.

1. Mullins steals HR with absurd catch

The Orioles outfielder channeled his inner Mike Trout with a dazzling catch to steal a dinger from Gary Sanchez. What makes this play so crazy is that Cedric Mullins is only 5-foot-8. He also had to spin his body around while in the air after timing the fly ball perfectly.