Mariners Ace Woo Battles Back from Injury in Playoff Thriller

Last October, the Seattle Mariners found themselves in a do-or-die Game 7 of the American League Championship Series. Facing elimination, the team turned to a familiar face—pitcher Woo, who had recently returned from injury to make his playoff debut.

Woo, a Bay Area native, had an interesting personal journey that shaped his perspective. As a child, he took several trips to China, including one where his family was quarantined for over a week. These experiences helped Woo gain a deeper appreciation for his heritage as he grew older.

Despite the high-pressure situation, Mariners manager Dan Wilson opted to put the game in Woo's hands. Wilson knew Woo had been the team's best pitcher all season and trusted him to get the job done in the biggest game of the year. While Woo did walk the first batter he faced, the Mariners were able to turn a double play to escape the inning unscathed.

Woo's resilience and the team's faith in him proved crucial as the Mariners went on to win the game and advance to the World Series, a historic achievement for the franchise.