Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the home side.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.
Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a long playoff drought.
