Seattle Mariners Edge Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Advance to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
During an intense 15-inning battle, Jorge Polanco drove in 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 American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
Luis Castillo, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the first time since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is set for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing players on the bases.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an strategic base on balls, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
A Tigers hitter accounted for all of the visitors' scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's RBI single.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Starting Pitchers Duel
Tarik Skubal and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up a single score on two hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a postseason record with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a double, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a pitch to give the visitors the lead.
Kirby lasted five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long playoff drought.
