Mariners Outlast Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in 24 Years
In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between franchise counterparts. The series opener is set for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.
The starter went over five frames and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.
