MLB Network recently counted down the top plays of the 2022 season, and they had a pretty easy choice for No.1.
On September 23, the St. Louis Cardinals were opening up a three-game set with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Albert Pujols, who was on his farewell tour, was sitting at 698 home runs.
The veteran slugger hit No. 699 off of left-hander Andrew Heaney early in the game to put the Cardinals on top.
In the top of the fourth inning, the Dodgers brought in right-hander Phil Bickford to face Pujols.
The future Hall-of-Famer then gave MLB fans a moment that they will never forget, hitting his 700th career home run and sending Dodger Stadium into a frenzy.
The No. 1 play of 2022 was something we had seen 699 times before.
Albert Pujols' 700th career HR takes the top spot! pic.twitter.com/8mlf3tzY9e
— MLB (@MLB) December 13, 2022
Albert Reaches 700
When you think about it, there really is no better choice for No. 1.
Pujols had struggled in the early portion of the 2022 season, and even toyed with idea of retiring before the end of the season.
At the time, 700 home runs appeared to be a reach.
But betting against Pujols is unwise, and he showed why in the second half.
It all culminated in a historic moment that Cardinals fans will remember for the rest of their lives.
The three-time MVP ultimately finished his career with 703 home runs, which puts him in fourth place on the all-time list.
And it was only fitting that Pujols accomplished this feat wearing a Cardinals uniform for his final ride, giving the fans in St. Louis yet another reason to cherish their slugger.
Pujols’ career may be over, but this is a moment that will live on in baseball history.
NEXT: Cardinals Fans Honor A Team Legend On A Special Anniversary