Mariners Outlast Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor contender, allowed a single score on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the lead.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.
