Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between franchise brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, putting players on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for a single score on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a place in the championship after a long postseason absence.
