Leo Rivas Delivers Walk-Off Heroics for Mariners in 13th
Last night in Seattle, an unforgettable moment unfolded as Leo Rivas, the journeyman infielder, became the unlikely hero for the Mariners. In a marathon 13-inning battle, Rivas stepped up and crushed a walk-off two-run homer, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and securing a dramatic victory for Seattle.
The game was a true test of endurance and strategy. Seattle’s bullpen was showcased as the backbone of the effort, covering more than eight innings and surrendering only three hits, one walk, and a single unearned run. What made the performance even more remarkable was that these innings were logged by some of the team’s unheralded arms. Veterans like Andrés Muñoz, Matt Brash, and Eduard Bazardo had already pitched heavily in the first two games of the series, leaving room for newer and lesser-known pitchers to step into high-pressure situations.
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José Castillo, recently claimed off waivers from the Mets, handled the ninth inning, while Luke Jackson, a minor-league signee called up when rosters expanded, pitched the 10th and 11th. Finally, Emerson Hancock, who had spent his entire career as a starter before transitioning to relief just a few weeks ago, took the mound for the 12th and 13th innings. Hancock not only kept the Mariners in the game but was credited with the win, marking just his fourth relief appearance in the majors. He described the experience as “such an adrenaline rush,” emphasizing that while the process was different, the goal remained the same: throw strikes and execute pitches.
Defense also played a pivotal role in Seattle’s win. The team executed flawlessly, making several standout plays that kept them in striking distance throughout the marathon. Julio RodrÃguez made a spectacular catch in center field, while infielders J.P. Crawford and Eugenio Suárez turned multiple diving stops. First baseman Josh Naylor also contributed, handling 13 putouts and showcasing some hidden athleticism that often goes unnoticed. Even baserunning mistakes by the opposing team were capitalized on, adding another layer to Seattle’s disciplined effort.
By the time Rivas launched that decisive homer in the bottom of the 13th, the game had already become a showcase of teamwork, resilience, and clutch performance. The Mariners’ bullpen finished the series with a perfect 0.00 ERA over 16 and a third innings, allowing just five hits and one walk, and recording 18 strikeouts. The game, and Rivas’ heroics, will surely be remembered as one of the most complete displays of skill and determination by the Mariners this season.
It’s the kind of moment that reminds fans why they love baseball: the unpredictable hero emerging from the shadows, the bullpen rising to the occasion, and a team-wide effort that culminates in an unforgettable, walk-off victory.
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