Major League Baseball

Nationals CF Span leaves game after diving catch

Published Sep. 23, 2014 8:17 p.m. ET

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WASHINGTON (AP) Denard Span has left the Washington Nationals' game against the New York Mets after making a diving, tumbling catch to end the top of the third inning.

The center fielder made a terrific grab on the warning track of a liner off the bat of Matt den Dekker that earned a standing ovation from spectators and high-fives from several teammates Tuesday night.

Span, who has a history of concussion problems, walked slowly back to the dugout after the play. He then headed toward the clubhouse with a team trainer.

Due to be the NL East champions' second batter in the third inning, Span was replaced by Michael Taylor.

Span entered the game leading the Nationals with a .298 batting average and 31 steals.