When the bizarre happens, and someone wants to make a call that seems common-sensical to them, it is always a good idea to think - "Is there a rule that tells me to do what I'm doing?" In this case, there is no rule that says anything about what a fielder may or may not do before catching a ball (I suppose one exists - he can't throw equipment at the ball and hit it). With no rule-basis for saying the fielder can't leave and come back, you have to rule this catch legal.
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