Seattle Mariners Edge Tigers in Record-Breaking 15-Inning Thriller to Move On to AL Championship Series in Over Two Decades
Through a gripping 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the winning run with a base hit to the outfield, sealing a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Key Moments in the Extended Game
The Mariners pitcher, delivering his first relief appearance in the major leagues, pitched over an inning to secure the victory, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
The Mariners will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a contest between franchise brethren. The series opener is set for Sunday in Toronto.
15th Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- JP Crawford initiated the final half of the 15th with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on the bases.
- After a teammate made an out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to advance.
- Following an strategic base on balls, Polanco singled on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
A Tigers hitter provided all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners evened the score at two runs apiece in the later inning on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams threatened multiple times in overtime, with the home team hitting into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter delivered a pitchers' duel in the opening frames.
Skubal, a Cy Young Award favorite, gave up a single score on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over multiple frames. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
His sole allowed score came in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly brought home a run for the Mariners.
Kirby began with shutout frames before allowing a lead-off double in the sixth. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to give Detroit the advantage.
The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for one run on a few hits with zero free passes and several K's.
The win signifies a significant milestone for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the championship after a long postseason absence.
