Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the Mariners.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.
The starter went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to compete for a place in the championship after a long postseason absence.