Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the early going, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win marks a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a place in the championship after a long playoff drought.
