Mariners Defeat Tigers in Historic Extra-Inning Showdown to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years

Through a gripping 15-inning contest, Jorge Polanco drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, sealing a 3-2 victory for the home team over the visiting squad in Game 5 of the ALDS.

Key Moments in the Extended Game

The Mariners pitcher, making his initial bullpen outing in the big leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the first time in over two decades.

The Mariners will now compete against the Toronto for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for the weekend in Toronto.

15th Inning Breakthrough

  • JP Crawford initiated the bottom of the 15th with a line-drive single to right field.
  • Another batter was struck by a throw, putting players on the bases.
  • After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the center fielder let the runner to advance.
  • Following an intentional walk, the batter singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the contest.

Key Runs and Defensive Performances

A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the middle frames.

The Mariners tied it at 2-2 in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.

Both teams threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.

Opening Hurlers Duel

Tarik Skubal and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.

The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, allowed one run on a couple of hits with no walks and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.

The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, stolen base, and deep out scored a point for the home side.

Kirby began with shutout frames before surrendering a early hit in the sixth. After a bullpen move, the Tigers batter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.

The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.

This victory marks a major milestone for the Seattle franchise, who advance to compete for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.

Ryan Freeman
Ryan Freeman

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