Crawford's Walk-Off Single Stuns Astros, Mariners Win 8-7

Late-inning rally caps dramatic comeback for Seattle against division rival Houston

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:06pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game in motion, with fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes of bright, contrasting colors representing the dynamic action on the field.The Mariners' stunning ninth-inning rally against the Astros shatters preconceptions and reveals the unpredictable heart of baseball.Seattle Today

In a thrilling late-night game in Seattle, the Mariners overcame a 7-2 deficit in the ninth inning to stun the Astros 8-7 on a walk-off single by J.P. Crawford. The comeback was fueled by a five-run fifth inning and clutch hitting from Cal Raleigh and Crawford, who delivered the game-winning hit off Astros reliever Bryan Abreu.

Why it matters

This game showcases the Mariners' resilience and ability to battle back from large deficits, a trait that could prove crucial in a tight AL West race. It also highlights the fragility of even the most dominant leads in baseball, as the Astros' bullpen faltered in the final frame.

The details

Trailing 7-2 in the ninth, the Mariners rallied with a bases-loaded walk and Crawford's timely single to left to complete the comeback. Raleigh's three-RBI performance in the fifth inning sparked Seattle's initial surge, setting the stage for the dramatic finish.

  • The Mariners trailed 7-2 entering the bottom of the ninth inning.
  • Seattle scored five runs in the fifth inning to cut the Astros' lead to 7-6.
  • J.P. Crawford delivered the game-winning RBI single in the bottom of the ninth.

The players

Cal Raleigh

Mariners catcher who hit a three-run homer in the fifth inning to jumpstart the comeback.

J.P. Crawford

Mariners shortstop who hit the walk-off single in the ninth inning to complete the dramatic win.

Bryan Abreu

Astros relief pitcher who struggled in the ninth inning, walking four batters and allowing the game-winning hit.

Yordan Álvarez

Astros slugger who hit a home run in the game, continuing his strong start to the season.

Carlos Correa

Astros shortstop who had three hits in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“We never gave up, even when we were down big. That's the kind of fight and determination this team has shown all season.”

— J.P. Crawford, Mariners Shortstop

“It's tough to lose a game like that, but credit to the Mariners for battling back. We had our chances, but couldn't close it out.”

— Dusty Baker, Astros Manager

What’s next

The Mariners and Astros will meet again on Friday for the second game of their three-game series in Seattle.

The takeaway

This game exemplifies the unpredictable nature of baseball, where no lead is ever truly safe. The Mariners' comeback showcases their resilience and ability to capitalize on late-inning opportunities, a trait that could pay dividends as they continue to battle for position in the AL West.