Mariners Outlast Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
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, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between franchise counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected 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 middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls 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 deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
The win marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.