Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to hand the visitors the advantage.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.