SEATTLE โ With an electrifying performance in the ninth inning, J.P. Crawford delivered a two-run homer, securing a 4-3 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Texas Rangers on Friday night.
Dominic Canzone initiated the ninth inning by singling off Robert Garcia, the Rangersโ closer. This set the stage for Crawford, who, faced with a 95 mph fastball on the third pitch, hammered it into the right field stands.
This victory was crucial for Seattle, as it allowed the team to close in further on the AL West-leading Houston Astros while solidifying their hold on the third wild-card position by a two-game margin over the Rangers.
Earlier in the game, Texas had gained a 3-1 lead, thanks to RBI hits from Rowdy Tellez, Josh Smith, and Marcus Semien in the third inning. However, the Mariners began to rally when Josh Naylor, a recent addition to the team, hit an opposite-field double in the fifth inning, narrowing Texasโs lead to 3-2.
Eduard Bazardo, who maintained outstanding composure, pitched the ninth inning for Seattle, earning him the win and improving his season record to 5-0.
Crawfordโs homer marked a significant career milestone, as it was his first-ever walk-off home run in the major leagues.
Looking ahead, the Mariners are preparing for their next contest where Merrill Kelly, with an impressive record of 9-6 and a 3.22 ERA, is anticipated to make his debut for the Rangers. Correspondingly, Luis Castillo, holding an 8-6 record with a 3.19 ERA, is set to pitch for Seattle.