Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

During an intense 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.

Decisive Plays in the Extended Game

The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.

The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

  • JP Crawford started the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
  • Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
  • After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
  • Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.

Key Runs and Pitching Efforts

Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Both teams posed a danger multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Starting Pitchers Duel

The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.

Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, 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 middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.

Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with no walks and several K's.

This victory signifies a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.

Adam Morgan
Adam Morgan

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