Seattle Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco delivered the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now face the Toronto for the championship in a contest between franchise counterparts. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
15th Inning Breakthrough
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
- Another batter was hit by a pitch, putting runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied 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 end the game.
Key Runs and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the later inning on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and George Kirby engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, allowed a single score on two hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He set a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a early hit in the middle inning. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to hand Detroit the advantage.
The starter lasted over five frames and was charged with a single score on a few hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
This victory signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who move forward to battle for a spot in the World Series after a extended postseason absence.