Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, theft, and deep out scored a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
