Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic extra-inning contest, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the win, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford started the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter connected on a full count to end the game.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. 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 run for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.
The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with one run on three hits with zero free passes and several K's.
This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.