Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a single to the outfield, sealing a 3-2 win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score occurred in the second inning, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the home side.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.
