Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
