Every game is a must-win, and every single play by every single player is important. The Tigers got just enough out of their hitters (five hits and two runs), and despite a couple of defensive miscues, also got some fine defense when needed. Holding onto a 2-1 lead through the top of the seventh, they brought in Suguru Iwazaki early and he mowed down 4, including strikeouts to Yamada and Murakami. Robert Suarez completed the eighth and naturally, took the mound in the ninth. A leadoff infield single (barely safe) was followed by a failed bunt, then a Texas leaguer, an error, and what looked like doom. The Swallows have been ridiculously hot and have pulled off all kinds of weird wins. With Yamada and Murakami again due up, plus the outfield drawn in, many fans feared the worst. It took three pitches for Suarez to elicit groans from the home crowd: an infield fly and a comebacker later, and we have ourselves a much-needed win. Tomorrow is no exception! Win win win!
