Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the win, propelling 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 contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to end the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, 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 engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the home side.
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 lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
