Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
During an intense 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to the outfield, clinching a 3-2 win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Extended Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to secure the win, 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 showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is set for the weekend in Toronto.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter started the bottom of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, putting runners on the bases.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Pitching Efforts
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's offense with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at 2-2 in the later inning on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams threatened multiple times in extra innings, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, allowed one run on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a double, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a point for the Mariners.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, Carpenter homered on a pitch to give Detroit the lead.
Kirby went over five frames and was charged with a single score on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win marks a major achievement for the Seattle franchise, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a extended playoff drought.
