Blue Jays’ Edwin Encarnacion: Best Single Game Performance?

Delgado on Level of Excellence Credit: S Doyle/Jays Journal

Toronto Blue Jays

If you love the long ball, then you’ll remember the following performance. On September 25, 2003, Carlos Delgado launched a total of 4 home runs against the Tampa Bay Rays. There were lots of fireworks that night. Remember when they sued to set off fireworks for each home run? His first one went for his 300th bomb of his career. Delgado was winding down a monster season. He finished 2nd in MVP voting, but 1st with 145 RBI and an OPS of 1.019. He hit 42 HR and 38 doubles that season with a .302/.426/.593 to put together one of the better season in Blue Jays history.

The following highlights his big night. He hit a 3-run shot and 3 solo bombs for a total of 6 RBI. His final home run was crushed well over 450 feet and the Windows restaurant. Check out the bat flip after that one.

It is somewhat disheartening to see the stadium so empty. Granted, it was 2003 and they were playing the Tampa Bay Rays. Regardless, the crowd was rocking that night. Delgado also set a club record with 16 total bases that night. That mark still stands.

While Edwin’s home runs totaled more runs, Delgado’s shots were impressive. His 3rd one came against a lefty pitcher and the sheer awe inspiring distance of the last one might give him the edge. Of course, his bombs also helped his team edge out a 10-8 victory that night. Edwin’s final blast was really just icing on the already decorated cake. The game was in hand at that point. But, that should not take away from Edwin’s day. Indeed, it was a rough day to be a pitcher.

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