Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
During an intense extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings 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 Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
