Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
Through a gripping extra-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the decisive score with a single to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, threw over an inning to earn the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time in over two decades.
Seattle will now compete against the Toronto for the pennant in a showdown between franchise brethren. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the 15th with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing players on first and second.
- After a teammate flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder allowed Crawford to advance.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco singled on a full count to conclude the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Efforts
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of Detroit's offense with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a Cy Young Award contender, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
The only run came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the home side.
Kirby began with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand the visitors the lead.
The starter went over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with no walks and several K's.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.