Mariners Defeat Detroit Tigers in Record-Breaking Extra-Inning Thriller to Advance to AL Championship Series in 24 Years
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, the Mariners' infielder drove in the decisive score with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow win for the Seattle Mariners over the visiting squad in the decisive game of the ALDS.
Decisive Plays in the Marathon Matchup
Luis Castillo, delivering his first relief appearance in the big leagues, pitched one and one-third innings to secure the victory, propelling his team to the AL Championship Series for the initial occasion in over two decades.
The Mariners will now face the Blue Jays for the pennant in a showdown between 1977 expansion counterparts. The series opener is scheduled for the weekend in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Breakthrough
- The leadoff hitter initiated the final half of the last inning with a line-drive single to the outfield.
- Randy Arozarena was hit by a pitch, putting runners on first and second.
- After Cal Raleigh flied out, a throwing error by the outfielder let the runner to take third.
- Following an intentional walk, Polanco connected on a 3-2 pitch to conclude the contest.
Scoring Highlights and Defensive Performances
Kerry Carpenter provided all of the visitors' scoring with a two-run homer in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a pinch hitter's RBI single.
Both teams posed a danger repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into inning-ending double plays in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Duel
The Tigers' ace and the Mariners' starter engaged in a low-scoring battle in the early innings.
Skubal, a pitching honor favorite, gave up one run on a couple of hits with no walks and 13 strikeouts over six innings. He set a postseason record with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the early going, when a two-base hit, theft, and deep out brought home a point for the Mariners.
The Mariners' pitcher opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the sixth. After a bullpen move, Carpenter went deep on a fastball to give the visitors the lead.
Kirby lasted over five frames and was responsible for one run on three hits with zero free passes and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a major achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
