Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
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 earn the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter 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 set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and deep out scored a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.
The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended postseason absence.
