Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
In a dramatic extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw one and one-third innings to secure the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.
Seattle will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a fielding mistake by the center fielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
Seattle tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a point for the home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a pitch to give the visitors the advantage.
The starter lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.
