Seattle Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to give Detroit the advantage.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
