Mariners Outlast Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years

In a dramatic extra-inning clash, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a single to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.

Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup

Luis Castillo, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.

The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. The series opener is set for Sunday in Toronto.

Final Inning Breakthrough

  • The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
  • Randy Arozarena was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
  • After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
  • Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to end the contest.

Key Runs and Pitching Performances

Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the middle frames.

Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.

Each squad posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.

Opening Hurlers Battle

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.

Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.

The Mariners' pitcher opened with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the advantage.

Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory signifies a significant milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a place in the World Series after a extended playoff drought.

Kathryn Mann
Kathryn Mann

Seasoned gaming analyst and enthusiast with a passion for high-stakes casino reviews and strategies.