CP20409479
Washington Nationals\' Adam LaRoche, left, rounds the bases past St. Louis Cardinals third baseman David Freese after hitting a solo home run in the second inning of Game 4 of the National League division baseball series on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Werth’s walkoff homer in 9th helps Nationals beat Cardinals 2-1 to force Game 5 in NLDS

WASHINGTON – The Washington Nationals signed Jayson Werth to show them how to win. His game-ending homer Thursday night extended their surprising season.

Werth led off the bottom of the ninth inning by driving Lance Lynn’s 13th pitch into the left-field stands to give the Nationals a 2-1 victory over the defending World Series champion St. Louis Cardinals and force a Game 5 in their NL division series.

As he circled the bases, Werth raised his right index finger in a “No. 1” gesture, while the announced crowd of 44,392 roared with delight.

The best-of-five series will end Friday night in Washington, with the winner advancing to face the San Francisco Giants in the NL championship series.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.

Leave a Reply

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles