Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning contest, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a single to the outfield, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting players on first and second.
- After a teammate flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a run 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 homered on a pitch to give Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
