Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
Through a gripping 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a single to right field, sealing a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the pennant in a contest between 1977 expansion counterparts. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let Crawford to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the later extra innings.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the lead.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a major milestone for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.
