Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
During an intense extra-inning contest, the Mariners' infielder delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, sealing a narrow win for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Game
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to earn the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a contest between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, placing runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh made an out, a fielding mistake by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a postseason record 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 home side.
The Mariners' pitcher began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the advantage.
Kirby went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a place in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.