Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to earn the victory, propelling his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter connected on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, allowed a single score on two hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.
