The Houston Astros found themselves in need of a replacement after first baseman Yuli Gurriel took a hit to the head after getting caught in a rundown.
Though Gurriel initially stayed in the game, he was lifted for a pinch hitter in the top of the eighth.
Trey Mancini, who the Astros acquired at the trade deadline, took Gurriel’s place and struck out swinging, but remained in the game at first base.
While his opportunities have been somewhat limited this postseason, Mancini made the most of his chance last night.
In the bottom half of the eighth, the Philadelphia Phillies were threatening.
With two on and two out, Kyle Schwarber stepped into the box.
Schwarber lined one to first base, but Mancini was able to snag it and record the final out of the inning to keep the Astros in front.
TREY MANCINI. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?!?!?! pic.twitter.com/o6HtgAKStW
— Houston Astros (@astros) November 4, 2022
Mancini Flashes The Leather
The play made by Mancini proved to be a crucial one.
The Phillies threatened again in the ninth.
They were once again silenced by some solid defense, however.
Mancini’s opportunities have been limited in Houston, but he sure made the most of his chance in Game 5 last night, flashing the leather and making a game saving play.
The Astros managed to stop the Phillies’ rally in its tracks and hold on to shut the door and secure the win in Game 5.
The Astros will return to Minute Maid Park in Houston with a chance to clinch their second World Series title in Game 6 on Saturday night.
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