Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
Through a gripping extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on first and second.
- After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a full count to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give the visitors the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
