Twins stop Ichiro, Mariners 2-1 in 10 innings
Published 10:36 pm Friday, June 5, 2009
:SEATTLE — The Minnesota Twins ended Ichiro Suzuki’s hitting streak at 27 games, and took advantage of Seattle left fielder Wladimir Balentien’s two 10th-inning misplays to beat the Mariners 2-1 on Friday night.
Pinch-hitter Ken Griffey Jr. fouled out against Twins closer Joe Nathan before Suzuki — with the crowd of 35,808 of chanting, pleading “Eee-chee-ro!” — struck out for the final out, ending his team-record hitting streak.
Francisco Liriano pitched six strong innings to perhaps save his place in the rotation and help the Twins win for the fourth time in five games. Matt Gurrier (2-0) allowed one hit in 1 2/3 innings, and Nathan finished for his 11th save in 13 chances.
