Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
During an intense 15-inning contest, 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 Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, threw one and one-third innings to earn the win, propelling his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a full count to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of the visitors' offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the Mariners.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a place in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
