Seattle Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning contest, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, 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 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 point for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give Detroit the advantage.
The starter went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
