Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now face 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 final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established 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 run for the home side.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
This victory signifies a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a place in the championship after a long playoff drought.