Seattle Mariners Defeat Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Move On to First ALCS in Over Two Decades
During an intense 15-inning battle, the Mariners' infielder delivered the winning run with a single to right field, clinching a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his initial bullpen outing in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the win, sending his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for Sunday in Toronto.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the bottom of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on first and second.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder allowed Crawford to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a full count to conclude the contest.
Key Runs and Pitching Efforts
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a two-run homer in the middle frames.
Seattle evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's run-scoring hit.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in extra innings, with the home team grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a playoff mark with back-to-back K's.
His sole allowed score came in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out brought home a run for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher began with five scoreless innings before allowing a early hit in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.
Kirby went over five frames and was responsible for one run on a few hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
This victory signifies a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the championship after a long playoff drought.