Mariners Edge Tigers in Historic 15-Inning Showdown to Move On to First ALCS in 24 Years
In a dramatic 15-inning clash, Jorge Polanco drove in the winning run with a base hit to right field, clinching a narrow victory for the home team over the Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the American League Division Series.
Key Moments in the Marathon Matchup
The Mariners pitcher, making his first relief appearance in the big leagues, threw over an inning to earn the win, sending his team to the ALCS for the initial occasion since 2001.
Seattle will now compete against the Blue Jays for the championship in a showdown between 1977 expansion brethren. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday in the Blue Jays' home.
Final Inning Game-Winning Sequence
- The leadoff hitter started the final half of the last inning with a sharp hit to right field.
- Another batter was struck by a throw, placing 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, the batter singled on a full count to end the game.
Key Runs and Pitching Performances
Kerry Carpenter accounted for all of Detroit's scoring with a home run in the sixth inning.
The Mariners tied it at two runs apiece in the seventh on a substitute batter's run-scoring hit.
Each squad threatened repeatedly in overtime, with the Mariners grounding into twin killings in both the 12th and 13th.
Opening Hurlers Battle
The Tigers' ace and George Kirby delivered a pitchers' duel in the early innings.
The left-hander, a pitching honor contender, gave up one run on a couple of hits with zero bases on balls and double-digit K's over six innings. He established a playoff mark with seven consecutive strikeouts.
The only run occurred in the second inning, when a two-base hit, theft, and sacrifice fly scored a run for the Mariners.
Kirby opened with five scoreless innings before surrendering a lead-off double in the middle inning. After a pitching change, the Tigers batter homered on a fastball to hand Detroit the lead.
The starter went five-plus innings and was responsible for a single score on three hits with no walks and six strikeouts.
The win signifies a significant achievement for the Mariners, who advance to battle for a spot in the World Series after a long postseason absence.
