Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered 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 ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.
Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
