Mariners Secure Playoff Berth, Extend AL West Lead in Dramatic Comeback
SEATTLE – The Seattle mariners clinched a postseason berth on Friday night, overcoming a late deficit to defeat the Colorado Rockies 8-6 at T-Mobile Park. The victory, fueled by a game-winning double from Josh Naylor in the bottom of the eighth, also extended the Mariners’ lead in the American League West.
This marks Seattle’s return to the playoffs for the second consecutive season, a critically important milestone for a franchise historically known for its postseason drought.The Mariners, boasting a 49-27 home record, now stand four games ahead of the Houston Astros with five games remaining in the division race. A playoff berth secured, Seattle now shifts focus to securing home-field advantage throughout the American League playoffs, currently holding a three-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians and Detroit Tigers – who are tied for the AL Central lead – for a first-round bye.
The Mariners trailed 3-1 entering the bottom of the eighth inning, facing Rockies reliever Juan mejia, who currently possesses the highest ERA in the major leagues. The inning began with Mejia hitting Luke Raley, followed by a walk to J.P. Crawford. Though Randy Arozarena and Cal Raleigh both struck out, Julio Rodriguez was then hit by a 97.5 mph fastball, loading the bases.
Naylor, acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks on July 24, delivered the decisive blow, sending a 2-0 fastball into the left-center field gap and scoring Rodriguez from first. “It felt like two seconds,” Rodriguez said. “It felt like two seconds for me,honestly. As soon as I saw him hit the ball in the gap, I just started running.” Naylor is slashing .292/.333/.486 as joining the Mariners.
Mariners closer Andres Munoz then sealed the victory with a dominant ninth inning, sending the home crowd of 35,925 into festivity. The Mariners haven’t won a playoff game at home in nearly 25 years, a fact not lost on the team.
“We want to play at home,” Rodriguez stated. ”I don’t want to leave my neighborhood to play.” The Mariners will continue their series against the Rockies on Saturday, aiming to further solidify their position atop the AL West.
