Mariners Defeat Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure 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 pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter went five-plus innings and was charged with one run on three hits with no walks and several K's.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.