Al Gionfriddo, inserted in left field for defensive purposes, makes one of most historic catches in World Series history when he robs Joe DiMaggio of an extra base hit with two men on base in the sixth inning. The outfielder’s heroics help to preserve an 8-5 Dodger victory in Game 6 of the Fall Classic.

On this day in 1947 Al Gionfriddo made one of the greatest catches in World Series history, robbing the great Joe DiMaggio of extra bases and helping the Dodgers to preserve an 8-5 win over the Yankees in Game 6 of the World Series. Gionfriddo had been inserted into left field for defensive purposes. This would also be one of the few times the normally stoic DiMaggio would show any emotion on the baseball field. After Gionfriddo’s catch he would kick the dirt near second base.

Gionfriddo’s career would end after the 1947 World Series. He would be all but forgotten if he didn’t make one of the most famous player ever