Lane Thomas started the ALDS with a three-run homer to the left-field bleachers at Progressive Field in Game 1. He punctuated the series and punched Cleveland's ticket to the ALCS with a grand slam to a similar spot, which fueled a 7-3 Guardians win in a decisive Game 5.
The Guardians loaded the bases with three singles in the fifth, which set up Skubal against Jose Ramirez in a clash of two of the league's top stars. Skubal struck Ramirez in the hand with a 99.9-mph fastball, which forced in the tying run. Thomas unloaded on the very next pitch.
Thomas, a July trade acquisition turned October hero, broke a 1-1 tie with a frenzy-inducing blast on a 97 mph sinker from Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, who had once again silenced Cleveland's bats before a nightmarish fifth inning.
After a win, the team plays Rocky Top in the clubhouse, a nod to Thomas, a Tennessee native. It started as a way to welcome the midseason trade acquisition to the club. Now, it's a staple.
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