Andy Ibáñez laced an eighth inning pinch-hit three-run double to clear the bases and give the Tigers a commanding 5-2 and eventual win over the Astros by the same score. The Tigers swept Houston and advanced to the divisional series where they will meet the Guardians.
Ibáñez was the key figure for the felines during the series driving in three runs over the two game stretch and also hitting .667 over that span. The native of the Isle of Youth is having a coming out party during this postseason and could a valuable commodity this offseason.
Although Jorge Soler went yard in three at-bats his best efforts could not prevent Atlanta from dropping a 5-4 decision to the San Diego Padres. The Braves were swept by the Friars and eliminated from the playoffs. The 2021 World Series MVP has now hit seven postseason homers in 80 at-bats. Daysbel Hernández also helped cause with three strikeouts and no earned runs over 2⅓ innings pitched in relief. The right-hander has been dominant in the last half of the season.
Cuban action on the day:
Andy Ibáñez (DET) 1-1,3B,3RBI
Yordan Álvarez (HOU) 3-0
Cionel Pérez (BAL) 0.1IP,2H,ER,K
Yennier Cano (BAL) 1.1IP,2H,0ER,K,BB
Yuli Gurriel (KC) 4-0
Dairon Blanco (KC) 0-0,PR
J.D. Martínez (NYM) 3-0*
José Iglesias (NYM) 5-1,R
Jorge Soler (ATL) 3-1,HR,RBI,R
Daysbel Hernández (ATL) 2.1IP,H,0ER,BB, 3K