Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the second inning, when a double, stolen base, and deep out scored a run for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.
