Padres pitcher's brother went crazy during grand slam off Scherzer originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
What San Diego Padres rookie reliever Daniel Camarena did on Thursday night was something that not even a movie script could accurately depict.
Called up earlier in the day, Camarena stepped to the plate in the fourth inning with the bases loaded and two outs. He promptly delivered the first hit of his career -- a grand slam to cut the Nationals lead to 8-6. It was a major moment that helped the Padres rally from an 8-0 deficit to win 9-8.
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Oh, also, it came off Max Scherzer.
That moment sent everyone at Petco Park into a frenzy, and it's hard to imagine that moment getting any more special. However, it did. That's because the fan in attendance that was the most fired up was none other than Camarena's brother, Louie.
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Taking in the game, Louie Camarena and a couple of other family members were able to witness the jaw-dropping moment in person. It's something he'll never forget.
“It’s unbelievable. It’s what dreams are made of. Daniel’s just such a great guy," Camarena said to Bally Sports San Diego. "Works so hard. He represents perseverance and love for the game. Couldn’t happen to a better kid, he’s just a really special guy.”
And while Camarena was clearly shocked just like everyone else, he may have been one of the few who could have even slightly seen something like this happening. Working with his brother from a young age in their backyard batting cage, Louie always knew Daniel was destined for something special.
He also recalled a 2011 game in which Daniel played for Cathedral Catholic High in San Diego that took place on the same field he stepped onto Thursday night. Sending a ball deep to the warning track, Louie knew his brother had some pop in his bat.
“He hit a ball that came up a little short. They’ve since moved the fence in but I think this one would have gotten out either way. He did it, he did it," Camarena said. "We talked about getting that done and what dramatic fashion to do it. Max Scherzer, just such a special moment for Daniel."
As far as improbable home runs go, what took place on Thursday may be near the top. It's a moment that Daniel, Louie, Padres fans -- and even some Nationals supporters -- won't forget anytime soon.
