J.P. Crawford helped Jonatan Clase score the winning run with a sacrifice fly in the 10th inning, securing a 2-1 victory for the Seattle Mariners against the Houston Astros on Wednesday night.
The game was all about strong pitching, with both teams’ starters, Justin Verlander for Houston and George Kirby for Seattle, delivering impressive performances. Verlander allowed just one run and three hits while striking out nine in seven innings, while Kirby allowed one run, six hits, and struck out eight in six innings.
Seattle manager Scott Servais praised the pitching duel between Verlander and Kirby, acknowledging it as top-notch baseball.
The bullpens also held strong, with the Mariners’ relievers allowing just one baserunner and striking out six over three innings. Mike Baumann retired the Astros in order in the 10th inning.
However, Houston’s Tayler Scott struggled in the 10th inning, allowing Clase to advance to third base after Dominic Canzone grounded out. With the bases loaded, Crawford hit a deep fly ball, allowing Clase to score the winning run.
Crawford expressed relief at not missing the opportunity to score the winning run, emphasizing the importance of getting the job done.
In the ninth inning, Seattle had a chance to win the game, but Julio Rodríguez was left stranded at third base after strikeouts by Ryan Bliss and Mitch Haniger.
Verlander’s performance was nearly flawless, with his only blemish being Canzone’s fifth homer of the season in the fifth inning. Despite the chilly weather making it difficult for the ball to carry, Canzone’s homer traveled an estimated 408 feet.
